Oldfields expands workshop to meet rising demand

Herefordshire’s multi-award-winning Oldfields Garage has completed a major expansion, increasing its workshop capacity by 50 per cent with the addition of a neighbouring unit.

The new space, alongside the existing 4,000 sq ft, is designed to accommodate electric vehicles (EVs), commercial vehicles (CVs), and motorhomes, and includes a dedicated bay for advanced vehicle diagnostics. It features its own shutter door for independent access while also connecting internally to the existing workshop, ensuring a seamless and efficient workflow between the two spaces.

“We’re all incredibly excited about this expansion,” said Tim Benson, Managing Director at Oldfields Garage. “It’s about staying ahead of industry changes and ensuring we have the capacity, tools, and expertise to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

The upgraded workshop has been resin coated throughout and is fitted with upgraded equipment, including an OMA 6.5m four-post ramp for larger commercial vehicles and motorhomes and an ATH Heinl scissor lift ramp for flexibility. The final piece in the jigsaw will be a Rotary lift supplied through LKQ Euro Car parts, with height extensions for large commercials. The family-run business has also invested in a Carbon Clean off-vehicle DPF cleaning machine and added LKQ remote diagnostics for an improved customer service offering.

“We’re seeing increased demand for commercial vehicle and motorhome servicing, and the new workshop allows us to cater to these markets more effectively," said Tim. “There’s also been a 61 per cent increase in EV and hybrid work, when comparing the first four months of the year against the same period in 2024. Our dedicated EV bay not only supports this growing demand but also conveys to our existing customers that we’re EV-ready, particularly those considering the switch to electric.”

Now in its 15th year at Leominster’s Enterprise Park, Oldfields Garage has been a cornerstone of the local community since 1991. The family-run business originally opened its doors on Green Lane, Leominster before relocating to its current, larger premises in 2010 to accommodate growing demand.

Paul Benson, who founded Oldfields Garage with his wife Cheryl in 1991 and is father to Tim Benson, said: “Cheryl and I started Oldfields with a simple goal: to offer good, honest service to our local community. Back then, we were running a small workshop and a traditional attended fuel station. We wouldn’t have believed it could develop to what it is today.

“To see how the business has grown under Tim’s leadership, with this latest expansion, is incredibly rewarding. It still carries the same values we built it on, just with a few more ramps and a lot more technology.”

This latest investment underscores Oldfields Garage’s commitment to meeting the evolving demands of its customers and staying ahead in an industry driven by rapid technological advancements.

"Garage owners looking to grow their business must invest in their infrastructure and equipment to keep pace with industry changes," said Tim. "Staying ahead of technological advancements is essential, and having the right tools and facilities in place is key to sustaining long-term growth."