A derelict petrol station in Failsworth, abandoned for 15 years, has been revitalized into a cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) charging hub and community space, thanks to a £4 million investment by Manchester-based Be.EV. The Manchester Charging Oasis marks a significant milestone in Failsworth’s ongoing regeneration, turning a neglected urban site into a beacon of sustainability and economic growth. This project aligns with Greater Manchester’s net-zero ambitions and supports the region’s Clean Air Plan, addressing air pollution that claims over 1,200 lives annually in the area.
Key Highlights:
- 12 ultra-rapid charging bays delivering up to 300kW, adding 325 miles of range in 20 minutes.
- Caffè Nero Express enhances the site as a community hub.
- Decontaminated green site, certified by Manchester City Council, repurposing a former petrol station.
- Serves 26,000 daily commuters, boosting local business spending by up to 3%.
- Supports Greater Manchester’s 150,000 EV projection by 2038 and Clean Air Plan.
Located on a key commuter route between Manchester and Oldham, the hub features 12 ultra-rapid charging bays and four waiting bays, catering to the growing EV population. A new Caffè Nero Express provides a welcoming space for drivers and locals alike. The site’s decontamination, including the removal of old petrol tanks, has restored the soil, earning it green certification from Manchester City Council. This transformation sets a precedent for repurposing disused urban spaces into sustainable assets.
The project is part of Failsworth’s broader regeneration within Greater Manchester’s Northern Gateway growth zone. Other initiatives include a £3.7 million affordable housing project on Hardman Street, a 51-apartment retirement community at the former Failsworth Mill, and a £1.35 million solar farm at Wrigley Head, reducing CO2 emissions by 50 tonnes annually. These efforts collectively enhance local infrastructure, create jobs, and promote sustainability.
Be.EV’s CEO, Asif Ghafoor, emphasized the hub’s role in fostering cleaner streets and community engagement. With over 800 charging bays nationwide and plans to reach 1,600 by 2025, Be.EV is driving the UK’s EV revolution, backed by £165 million from Octopus Energy Generation and other investors. The Manchester Charging Oasis not only supports EV adoption but also contributes to reducing air pollution, making Failsworth a model for sustainable urban development.
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