‘We’ll miss it,’ owner says as garage to shut down for good in days after running for more than 50 years

A LONGTIME family garage is set to close at the end of the month as its building will be turned into housing.

BD Motors in Essex Street, Whitstable, has had thousands of loyal customers over 53 years.

But, the beloved business will not have its lease renewed as the building owner is set to redevelop the brick building into four homes.

Owner Alf Reed, 82, said he looked forward to work each morning but would now spend more time with classic cars in retirement.

 He said: “I’m happy to be retiring but I will absolutely miss it."

Reed began his garage in the property with a former partner in 1971 after a fizzy drink manufacturer departed in 1969.

That partner left 20 years ago and was replaced by Adrian Shoosmith who worked his way up from apprentice.

Shoosmith, 56, has now spent 40 years at the firm and is seeking to keep the business alive at a new location in Whitstabale or Herne Bay.

But, he said the high price of rent is making his mission impossible.

He said: “I’m keen to let people know and thank them – we’ve had some really great customers over the years.

“There’s nowhere else for us to go really, but it means I can try something new if I don’t find anything in mechanics.”

Plans for the new homes would see three two-bed houses and one three-bed house built.

One customer wrote: “Highly recommend this garage! We bring all our family cars here. They don't rip you off and are very honest men.”

Another said: "Was visiting family in Whitstable and my car broke down. Remembered this garage from a few years back and took it straight there. Great service."

While a third posted: "Honest advice, fitted me in at short notice, only paid for the work they had done for the inspection and changing a battery."

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In the proposal, the applicant said: “The proposal will result in a general improvement to the surrounding properties amenity by the removal of commercial buildings and activity in an area which is now predominantly residential and removing the commercial buildings from the rear of the site.”

It comes just days after a UK car dealership closed its doors for the final time.

Motor Connect, based in Northwich, Cheshire, sells many makes and models from Ford and Vauxhall to Volvo, BMW, Mercedes, and Audi.

The dealership's managing director Steve Corwood announced "big plans" were in motion which meant Motor Connect had to close.

In a post shared to social media this week, he explained that he and his family had decided to remain in Spain after moving there some time ago to establish Motor Connect Mallorca.

He said: "The jungle drums have been beating so it’s time for me to let you all know. The time has come for us to close the doors at Motor Connect.

"Firstly I want thank all of our customers, partners and friends for your support over the years. I think it’s important for everyone to know that this is a decision through choice!"