Plans have been proposed for a new electric vehicle charging hub at South Mimms services.

BP plans to redevelop its current Connect retail site at the Welcome Break South Mimms services off Junction 23 of the M25.

The development would including 32 covered ultra-fast EV charging bays along with an enhanced M&S retail unit, while 10 of the 16 petrol and diesel pumps would be retained.

The development will also make use of sustainable materials such as timber with a green roof and PV panels, while a landscaping strategy will provide attractive green boundaries to the site.

Around 155 construction jobs and a further 190 supply chain jobs will be created during the initial build period. Once complete, the site will create a further six full-time jobs on-site, in addition to the existing 15 jobs that support the current operations.

If the project is approved, contruction work could start in early 2024.

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"Sustainability is at the heart of these proposals," said Pippa Nisbet, director at Lichfields, the development consultancy leading the plans. 

"The site lies at a key juncture on the strategic road network and is an ideal location to accommodate EV charging facilities, while continuing to provide petrol and diesel, as the UK transitions towards electric vehicles and a net zero economy.

"Overall, this proposed scheme will enhance an existing BP retail site, creating a much-needed facility and jobs. 

"The scheme is also sat within a well-connected landscaped site, complete with all the amenities and functionality demanded by drivers requiring ‘superfast’ charging hubs."

As part of the planning process, being led by planning and development consultancy Lichfields, a public consultation is underway.

The consultation closes on October 16, 2023, and you can have your say visiting www.bpsouthmimms-consultation.co.uk.