Portrack electric vehicle charging hub plans approved by council

The scheme, submitted by E.ON Drive Infrastructure UK and Apsley Galliard Conn, will see a canopy-covered hub installed at Portrack Retail Park in Stockton.

It will feature 12 ultra-rapid charging bays, a substation, fencing and a kiosk.

The number of parking spaces on the site will reduce from 51 to 32, though the green areas will not be affected.

A second phase of the development could add a further four drive-through bays, bringing the total to 16.

A planning statement submitted on behalf of the applicants said: “The site is well positioned to provide convenient EV charging for both local residents and through traffic.”

The hub sits just off the A19/A1046 junction, making it easily accessible for both local drivers and those passing through the area.

The statement added: “While the proposals will increase the number of vehicles which access the site, a substantial proportion of those may simply be extensions or diversions of existing trips.”

The existing site entrance will be used, with no changes planned for the surrounding road network.

Apsley said the hub would “strengthen local provision and support the continued shift towards low-emission transport,” with the scheme aligning with the Tees Valley Strategic Transport Plan and wider regional goals to reduce carbon emissions.

Stockton Council approved the application subject to conditions.