RINGWOOD'S economy has received a £6.5million investment boost with the opening of Eberspächer UK's new purpose-built headquarters and manufacturing facility.

The official opening of Climate House at Forest Gate Business Park, Yeoman Road, took place last Wednesday and also marks the company's 38th year of operation.

Eberspächer UK Ltd is a leading manufacturer and supplier of vehicle, construction and marine heating, and air conditioning systems, and is part of the global Eberspächer Group, which is still family owned and celebrating its 150th year.

Vince Lee, the managing director of Eberspächer UK’s, said: “This £6.5 million investment reflects our commitment to raising the profile of Eberspächer within the UK."

Established in the New Forest in 1977, Eberspächer UK’s new headquarters has allowed the company to consolidate its three sites into one location.

Mr Lee added: “We needed to retain the particularly unique skills of the current workforce so waited patiently for this site to be developed in Ringwood. We have a proud history of designing and manufacturing air conditioning and climate control products. Now, with our new facility, we have an unprecedented opportunity to increase production, create new jobs in the area and bring the latest technologies and innovations to life and become an even bigger part of the Eberspächer Group’s worldwide operations.”

The opening was attended by Eberspächer Group chief operating officer and managing partner Heinrich Baumann and the Mayor of Ringwood Cllr Barbara Woodifield.

Mr Baumann added: “The UK is the second largest subsidiary of the Climate Control Systems Division and most important as they have been active in successfully adapting their business model to the ever changing environment.”

The company previously said it expects to increase its workforce by 15 per cent over the next year, to add to its 85-strong workforce Eberspächer UK’s new headquarters is three times the size of its previous facilities and is home to a state-of-the-art climatic chamber.

The mayor of Ringwood, Cllr Barbara Woodifield, said: “I was delighted to attend the opening of Climate House, the new HQ of Eberspacher UK.

"Climate House is the first building to be completed at Forest Gate Business Park, in Yeoman Road. Being some 5500 square feet, it will enable Eberspacher to continue with its expansion programme comfortably and has supplied further employment for local people."