TfL-backed EV charging partnership secures planning permission on its first ultra-rapid hub
Fastned and Places for London have secured planning permission for a new EV charging hub at TfL's Hatton Cross station car park, following approval by the London Borough of Hillingdon.
It’s the first of an initial five hubs under the joint venture announced last Autumn to deliver up to 25 ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs across London by the end of the decade.
The Hatton Cross hub will have 12 ultra-rapid charging bays powered by 100 per cent certified renewable energy. It will be monitored by CCTV and sheltered by a solar canopy, making charging comfortable and safe for everyone in all weather.
All bays will be extra wide, and two bays will be fully accessible in accordance with the latest British Standards Institution's guidance on accessible charging infrastructure. Hub customers will have 24/7 customer support via app and phone, available in multiple languages. Toilet facilities will also be available for hub users.
Emma Hatch, Head of Development at Places for London, said, "We're delighted that in just a little over three months since forming our partnership we have secured our first planning consent for this ultra-rapid EV charging hub. This is a great example of how we, as part of a public body, can work with the private sector to bring about the infrastructure London needs.”
Tom Hurst, Fastned UK Country Director, said, "This is another big step forward for London's EV charging network, and is a testament to the efforts of Fastned and Places for London. The swift planning decision by London Borough of Hillingdon shows real commitment to the EV transition for the borough. It's pragmatic decisions like these that allow us to roll out our high-quality charging network across the capital and beyond."
Oliver Lord, UK Head of Clean Cities Campaign, added, "It's fantastic this venture is delivering so quickly and I hope other cities are taking note. These charging hubs, when priced affordably, will ease pressure on councils by giving EV owners access to ultra-fast and ultra-modern points without needing to pile them all on local streets. London has huge potential to be the EV capital of Europe and charging availability will be critical, so long as it is matched with the right policies and incentives, especially for freight."
London leads in EV uptake nationally, with around 193,000 plug-in electric cars and vans already registered in the capital. EV numbers in London are projected to reach between 1-1.4million by 2030, making up around half of London's car and van fleet. This rising demand would mean Londoners need 40,000 to 60,000 chargers, including up to 4,000 rapid chargers. London currently has 21,600 charge points.
The Places for London/Fastned joint venture is also looking at ways to help push the industry forward through offering work experience placements, apprenticeships and employment. For example, the construction of the Hillingdon site will also provide opportunities for work experience in collaboration with local schools. Broader economic opportunities will be realised by helping small to medium enterprises enter the market and upskilling more people to support London's sustainable EV transition.