The latest phase of Manheim Auctions’ investment at its 50-acre four-lane site in Colchester has been completed well ahead of schedule.

People attending its first week’s sales of 2010 were able to view the 2,000 cars and vans available under its newly extended canopy.

Manheim’s multi-million pound investment at its Colchester site began in 2004 with the purchase of an additional 11 acres of land to allow for the start of an expansion and redevelopment project.

This enabled a larger covered viewing area to be introduced as well as a dedicated inspection bay for 60 vehicles. However the most significant phase of the redevelopment project was the opening of its four-lane auction centre in November 2007.

Mike Pilkington, managing director, Manheim Remarketing, said: “This development reinforces Colchester’s status as Europe’s premier auction centre and provides a level of comfort and convenience to buyers unrivalled in the industry.”