Plans for Europe’s largest ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging hub have been unveiled, with proposals centered around a major redevelopment at the Trafford Centre in Manchester.
A planning application has been submitted for the transformation of a former petrol station near the Marks & Spencer store, located at one of the main entrances to the shopping complex. If approved, the site will feature a state-of-the-art ultra-rapid charging hub, a Starbucks Drive-Thru, a supercharger lounge, a car showroom, and an innovative digital advertising screen surrounded by a vertical “living wall” of plants.
Matthew Anderson, Development Director at Trafford Centre managers Pradera Lateral, revealed that the project would add 47 new 250kW ultra-rapid chargers to the site. Once operational, the total number of ultra-rapid chargers at the Trafford Centre would rise to 65, potentially making it the largest charging hub of its kind in Europe.
“We have worked closely to design a scheme that complements both the Trafford Centre and the local area,” Anderson stated. “This forward-thinking project will enhance biodiversity, support sustainable travel, and align with the center’s broader environmental goals.”
The redevelopment reflects the growing demand for EV infrastructure and positions the Trafford Centre as a leader in sustainable transportation solutions for shoppers and visitors.
