Three new ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs are set to be established in Northumberland, aimed at supporting the region’s eco-tourism and carbon neutrality goals by 2030.
The hubs will provide high-speed charging options for residents and visitors, encouraging a shift toward sustainable travel.
The charging hubs will be located at Tyne Valley Retail Park in Hexham, Ramparts Business Park in Berwick and Manor Walks Shopping Centre in Cramlington.
The sites have been strategically selected for their proximity to major transport routes and key attractions, offering both ‘on-the-go’ charging for travellers and ‘dwell’ charging for visitors to nearby retail centres and tourist destinations.
Each location will feature ultra-rapid charging bays capable of adding up to 125 miles of range in 20 minutes.
The first site at Tyne Valley Retail Park is expected to be operational in November, with the Berwick and Cramlington hubs to follow in early 2025.
The initiative aims to strengthen Northumberland’s green infrastructure, support sustainable tourism and contribute to the local economy.
Sites have been chosen to ensure access for visitors to popular attractions such as Hadrian’s Wall, Bamburgh Castle and the Northumberland coast, enabling more sustainable travel while promoting longer stays and increased local spending.
Northumberland’s tourism sector welcomes over 10 million visitors annually, and the introduction of ultra-rapid charging facilities is expected to enhance the region’s appeal to environmentally conscious travellers.
As demand for sustainable tourism continues to rise – with searches for “sustainable holidays” reportedly increasing by 191% since 2019 – accessible charging infrastructure is seen as a key component in supporting greener travel options.
The number of public EV chargers in Northumberland has increased by 37% over the past year, bringing the total to 383.
Advance Northumberland, a property investment and development business, is playing a key role in delivering the new charging hubs.
The organisation focuses on creating opportunities to improve prosperity, tackle inequalities and drive economic growth in support of Northumberland County Council.
The charging hubs will be accessible to all EV drivers, with a share of the revenue generated by the charging sites reinvested into community initiatives
Lee Farrier, head of commercial and workspace at Advance Northumberland, said: “From supporting eco-tourism to helping residents embrace low-carbon transport options, these hubs are a vital part of our region’s green strategy.”.
