'Charging oasis' set for former petrol station site

Construction has begun on an expansive new EV charging station in Failsworth, hailed as a 'charging oasis' by developers. Manchester's Be.EV has started work at the former petrol station at the junction of Reliance Street and Oldham Road—on the cusp of Manchester and Oldham—where it will build 12 ultra-rapid charging bays, additional waiting areas, and even a Café Nero.

Offering the capability to charge electric cars up to 80% within just 20 minutes, the site is aimed at addressing the increasing demand for efficient charging facilities.

Asif Ghafoor, CEO of growing EV network Be. EV, said: "We've designed the site with EV drivers in mind - we know that they want amenities on-site, either to take an extended break from driving, or simply to pop in and grab a takeaway coffee."

This derelict spot sees a daily flow of over 26,000 commuters pass by daily, while there are 1,242 registered EVs in the area, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The government is urging people to embrace electric vehicles, prompting local authorities like Oldham Council to innovate public charging solutions accessible within ten minutes from any residential area—addressing the needs of those without driveways to prevent on-street 'trip hazards'.

Councillor Josh Charters, Deputy Cabinet Member for Bee Network Delivery, said: "The introduction of more electric charging points locally, and nationally, is a good thing for residents and businesses.

"It makes the move to electric vehicles easier and also helps improve the environment and the health of everyone. The council is currently working on an electric charging strategy for the borough that will set out our future plans to support residents, reduce emissions and combat climate change."

Earlier this year, Be.EV secured a £55m cash boost from NatWest and Germany’s KfW IPEX-Bank to grow its UK network of chargers.