Work is set to begin on Bahrain's first car auction yard  next month in Salmabad, said a report.

The 22,000 sq m plot will be able to accommodate up to 850 cars, reported the Gulf Daily News, our sister publication citing a senior minister.

The project, called Kingdom Auction Yard, will feature a stage to display vehicles on auction in addition to regular slots that will be available for exhibitors wishing to sell their cars, said Municipalities and Urban Planning Affairs Minister Dr Juma Al Ka'abi.

It will also include offices for the Traffic Directorate, insurance companies and other relevant services.

The auction yard will only be open on weekends from 7am to 6pm, said the report.

"The yard will be fenced and equipped with proper entrances and exits to ensure there are no traffic jams in the area," said Dr Al Ka'abi.

"Security guards will also be present to ensure the place is not misused and to prevent any damage to vehicles," he added.

"The idea for the yard has come after various complaints that people are parking 'for sale' vehicles in the middle of the road or using car parks allocated for schools or businesses," stated Al Ka'abi.

"We have already issued a decision banning the exhibition of used cars in public places and the yard will ensure that an alternative authorised place is available for those wanting to sell their vehicles," he noted.

Dr Al Ka'abi expects the yard to be up and running within the next three months.

"Work is expected to begin next month and will take just two months and with it spaces for 850 cars will be available, that's of course besides car parks for visitors," he added.

"It will also include a stage for those wishing to further showcase their vehicles in the middle of the yard." He said the facility will also include restrooms, a prayer area, advertisement spaces and seven cabins for services.-TradeArabia News Service