Fastned launches new high-speed charging hub in Durham.

Fasten, the ultra-rapid charging network, has recently unveiled its latest hub in Durham, strategically positioned just off the A1 motorway to facilitate the electric vehicle (EV) transition in the North East.

The newly unveiled Forrest Park hub boasts the capability to charge up to eight EVs simultaneously, with plans to expand to accommodate ten charging bays in response to increasing demand. Situated north of Darlington, a mere stone’s throw away from the A1 at the Aycliffe interchange, this hub is set to revolutionise the charging infrastructure in the region.

This recent addition marks Fastned’s 25th hub in the UK, and notably, it is the company’s second site in County Durham. Collaborating closely with the council, Fastned scouted and secured the perfect location for the new hub, further solidifying its commitment to sustainable transportation.

On a visual front, the newly established charging hub showcases Fastned’s signature illuminated yellow wings, not only aiding EV drivers in easily spotting the facility but also showcasing the availability of ultra-rapid charging facilities to those contemplating the switch to electric vehicles.

Motorists utilising the Forrest Park hub can relish in a plethora of amenities on-site, including popular food options like KFC, Spar, and McDonald’s, making the charging experience convenient and enjoyable. Additionally, Fastned’s ultra-rapid chargers support various payment methods, adding a layer of flexibility for users.

Spanning across the county, Fastned’s charging network encompasses several key hubs in prominent locations such as Barnard Castle, Sunderland, Washington, and Newcastle. This extensive network empowers EV drivers to seamlessly journey across the region, inherent in Fastned’s commitment to revolutionise sustainable transportation.

In a recent study by Zapmap, Fastned was heralded as the UK’s best en-route EV charging network by drivers, reaffirming the trust and satisfaction experienced by its users. Tom Hurst, the UK country manager at Fastned, expressed his delight, saying, “County Durham has been a steadfast supporter since the inauguration of our first hub at Barnard Castle in 2022. It brings me immense joy to expand our footprint in the county and introduce our second charging hub in County Durham, heralding an unparalleled charging experience for drivers in the north east.”

Councillor Mark Wilkes, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change, chimed in, stating, “We are thrilled to be chosen as the site for another charging hub. This addition aligns perfectly with our overarching goal of enhancing electric charging accessibility county-wide, with extensive funding secured for the deployment of electric vehicle charge points as part of our ongoing initiatives.”

He further added, “The new hub not only supports our Climate Emergency Response Plan but also furthers our commitment towards curbing carbon emissions across the county. Sustainable travel options are integral to this mission, offering individuals the choice to make environmentally conscious journeys.”