Darwen mechanics rent out space to DIY motor buffs (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Darwen mechanics rent out space to DIY motor buffs

3:07pm Tuesday 9th February 2010 in

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A DARWEN garage has become the first in the North to introduce a new rent-a-bay scheme.

Autopia, based in Railway Road, is cashing in on difficult economic conditions by offering spaces with ramps and equipment for motor enthusiasts and DIY mechanics to work on and inspect their own vehicles.

Owner Darren Jones, of Tockholes, took the decision to open the business after restoring his own 1979 MG B GT, and said the business was attracting a wide range of motorists.

Mr Jones, 48, said: “I don’t know of anywhere else in the country that does it apart from London and Norwich, though it’s a growing trend in America and in continental Europe.

“We have 1,600 square metres, which is enough for five cars.

"We have tools and two ramps that people can use with no extra charge.

“We get a wide range of people coming to us – one guy recently had a Rolls-Royce he wanted to get up on a ramp so he could look at what was wrong with the exhaust before he took it to a garage and was charged the earth.

“There are also a lot of people who want to fit parts themselves that they have bought off eBay, people who want to save money by doing oil checks and so on themselves, and classic car enthusiasts.

“It’s been successful in the first few weeks and offers something different to people who might not have their own garages or space, or haven’t got access to a ramp.”

Mr Jones has finished working as an IT manager to concentrate on the venture, which is open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm.

Although he cannot offer any practical help, he is on site to give advice.

The bays can be rented for £7-10 per hour plus VAT.