DRIVERS using the A13 near Orsett could soon have access to a new electric vehicle charging hub after Thurrock Council granted full planning permission for a scheme at a westbound service station.

BP Chargemaster Ltd has been given the go-ahead to install six charging bays and three chargers at the BP filling station off the Stanford-le-Hope Bypass.

The hub will fit within the existing petrol station and include five standard bays, one accessible bay and electrical equipment.

Currently there are no EV chargers on the site.

The petrol station sits beside the A13, one of Thurrock's busiest routes, carrying motorists across south Essex and towards London.

Planning documents said the hub would meet growing demand as more drivers switch from petrol and diesel to electric vehicles.

BP said the additional charging points would strengthen the local charging network and help reduce transport emissions.

In its planning statement, the company said the scheme would "make a positive contribution in reducing carbon emissions" while "contributing to the local network of EV charging points within the area".

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The statement also noted that electric vehicles are expected to account for an increasing share of traffic, with almost a quarter of new car registrations in 2025 being fully electric.

The proposal also supports Thurrock Council's Electric Vehicle Strategy to expand charging points and move transport towards lower emissions.

BP said the scheme suited the site because it would stay within the existing filling station boundary without significantly expanding it.

The chargers are expected to sit beside existing facilities without significantly changing the petrol station's appearance.

Council officers backed the proposal and granted full planning permission.

The approval means work can now move forward on the installation of the charging hub, although no timetable for construction has yet been announced.