Plans have been revealed for what could be Europe’s largest concentration of electric vehicle ultra rapid charging spaces at Trafford Centre.
The scheme involves the redevelopment of the former petrol station site close to the M&S store. This prominent site, situated at one of the main entrances to Trafford Centre, will be completely reinvigorated through Trafford Centre’s proposals.
Matthew Anderson, Development Director at Pradera Lateral – Trafford Centre’s Asset Managers, said:
“We’re pleased to confirm our exciting re-development plans for the old petrol station site at Trafford Centre.
“The development will deliver a brand-new Starbucks Drive Thru, Ultra Rapid Charging Hub, Super Charger Lounge and Car Showroom, plus a new digital advertising screen installation with a hydroponic vertical living wall.
“The plans for this area have been brought forward in collaboration with Starbucks and a marketing leading EV manufacturer and charge point operator. We have worked closely together to design a scheme that compliments both Trafford Centre and the local area, is forwarding thinking, secures biodiversity improvements and supports more sustainable forms of travel to and from the centre.
“Our proposals will deliver a further 47 ultra rapid chargers (250kW), taking the total at the centre to 65, which is expected to make Trafford Centre the largest ultra rapid charging hub in Europe.
“We look forward to working with Trafford Council throughout the planning process. Subject to securing planning permission, construction work is targeted to begin in early 2025.”
Aidan Williams, Trafford Council Executive Member for Climate Change, said:
“The Council supports increasing the use of electric vehicles and the transition towards a low carbon transport system. The proposals at the Trafford Centre will be subject to planning permission, but if approved the development will help to respond to the pressing climate emergency and ensures Trafford is at the forefront of addressing this through the creation of what is expected to be Europe’s largest electric vehicle ultra rapid charging station”
The new Starbucks Drive Thru will be built using modern, sustainable methods of construction, following the latest design principles to reduce the environmental impact of the build.
In a UK first, there will be a welcome a new purpose built two-storey car showroom, super charging lounge and a 47 bay ultra rapid charging hub to the site, improving charging access for EV drivers in the Manchester region.
The scheme will be complimented by two digital advertising screens forming a single display, with a hydroponic vertical living wall to the rear. This living wall forms part of a high-quality landscaping plan, which has been designed to enhance the biodiversity of the whole scheme.
