Porsche could race into new Wolverhampton showroom

But luxury brand Porsche will soon be hoping that its supercars will be a familiar sight on the streets of the Black Country and Staffordshire after it emerged the firm is looking to open a new 'landmark' showroom in the area.

The firm has applied to Wolverhampton City Council to build the new base on the A449 Stafford Road near to Junction 2 of the M54.

The company already has showrooms in Solihull and Sutton Coldfield but it is believed to be the first time it has had a site in the Black Country or South Staffordshire.

The announcement comes after a £500 million investment in the city by Jaguar Land Rover where it is building a new engine plant on the nearby i54 business park.

In plans submitted to the council by Porsche, the site, which is currently unoccupied, will include a workshop and parking for 107 cars.

In its application Porsche says the two-storey building will be a 'true landmark on this key gateway site, hopefully leading to the building becoming well recognised.' It will be known as 'The Gateway'.

Cars from the firm, which is one of the most recognised brands in the world, can fetch from around £38,000 to above the £120,000 mark.

Spokesman for Porsche, Rob Punshon, said: "I can confirm that yes, Porsche has submitted a planning request for the area. We will provide any further updates in due course."

Councillor for Bushbury North, Ian Angus, said Porsche could be a coup for the city. He said: "I had a glance at the application a couple of days ago and I have to say it's a really welcome move for Fordhouses but also Wolverhampton. Porsche is a premium brand and anything that can add further value in Fordhouses and Wolverhampton can only be for the good.

"This could be a coup for the city. It's bringing industry and job opportunities as well as investment for this part of the city.

"Add this with Jaguar Land Rover and you see that the north of Wolverhampton is becoming the place that is attracting business. I think it's the reward for the council's efforts in opening up opportunities for businesses to start here." This week the city council announced a year of road works on the Vine Island in Fordhouses near to where the new showroom would be based had been completed.

The development cost £3m and was carried out ahead of an anticipated increase in traffic heading for the i54.

Jaguar Land Rover revealed earlier this year it would bring 1,300 jobs to the area.