A GARAGE on a major road in Herefordshire is planning major work to combat "range anxiety".
Motor Fuel Group, which owns Symonds Yat Service Station on the A40 northbound near Ross-on-Wye has applied for planning permission from Herefordshire Council.
It wants to create an electric vehicle charging zone, covered by a canopy, and a sub-station enclosure at the petrol station on the A40, a key route between South Wales and the M50 and A49 at Ross-on-Wye.
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In documents submitted to the council, consultants Carney Sweeney, on behalf of the business, said the plans were in response to the UK Government's drive for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure.
It said that up to 480,000 public charge points could be needed by 2030, and rapid charging for longer journeys on motorways and in remote areas will be "particularly important".
Rapid electric car chargers are useful for drivers on long jpurneys. Picture : Jon Brady/LDRS
"At present, it is understfood that the uneven spread of EV charging facilities significantly hinders the take-up of electric vehicles due to the potential servicing constraints.
"En-route charging for longer journeys is deemed crucial to support the switch to EV and reduce concerns about charge 'range anxiety'."
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Consultants also said Motor Fuel Group, which calls itsel the largest independent forecourt operator, is looking to roll-out an extensive supply of EV charging facilities at existing and new service stations across the UK.
At the Symonds Yat petrol station, this means it wants permission to install eight chargers.
Consultants said there are no concerns about an adverse impact on amenity, and there are also no worries about antisocial behaviour as the area is well-lit.
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The proposal is designed to integrate well with the service station and has a "modern design approach, which is uncluttered and fit for purpose".
Consultation on application 221857 is open until September 16, with planners setting October 10 as a target date for a decision.
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