BP has set out plans to redevelop its current petrol station at South Mimms into a major BP Pulse electric vehicle charging hub.

The plans would add ultra-rapid EV charging facilities to the existing petrol / diesel pumps

Proposals include adding 32 covered ultra-rapid EV charging bays along with an enhanced M&S retail unit selling convenience items and providing washroom facilities. The plans also retain 10 of the existing 16 petrol and diesel pumps at the Connect forecourt.

Located at junction 23 of the M25, the proposed charging hub will provide a major new facility for drivers travelling through the area and for local people to charge their vehicles.

The chargers will join the existing 19 charging points, including six ultra-rapid units and 12 Tesla superchargers, at the South Mimms Welcome Break service area, expanding provision as more drivers go electric.

The new development will make use of sustainable materials such as timber with a green roof and PV panels. A landscaping strategy will provide attractive green boundaries to the site.

The planning process is being led by planning and development consultancy Lichfields and a public consultation is open until 16 October 2023.

Pippa Nisbet, director at Lichfields, London office, said: “Sustainability is at the heart of these proposals. The site lies at a key juncture on the strategic road network and is an ideal location to accommodate EV charging facilities – while continuing to provide petrol / diesel, as the UK transitions towards electric vehicles and a net zero economy.”

If the project is approved, onsite work could start early 2024.