Work has started at London Gatwick Airport on Gridserve’s third Electric Forecourt, with the site expected to open next year.

Located on the Ring Road South approach to London Gatwick’s South Terminal and adjacent to the M23, the London Gatwick Electric Forecourt will enable 36 electric vehicles to be charged simultaneously with chargers that can deliver up to 350kW, capable of adding 100 miles of range in less than 10 minutes.

Multiple charging connectors will cater for all types of electric vehicles with contactless payment accepted.

The site will also be supplied with 100% renewable net zero carbon energy generated by Gridserve’s own hybrid solar farms.

Toddington Harper, CEO of Gridserve, said: “Whilst timelines have not been without their challenges, we are targeting delivery of Gatwick Electric Forecourt in summer 2023.

“Visitors will find an outstanding customer experience for those making electric journeys to and from one of the country’s most important transport destinations.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone to our latest Electric Forecourt® as soon as possible next year.”

While charging, visitors can enjoy a coffee, use a waiting lounge with free WiFi, convenience retail, children’s play area and a dedicated educational space to increase awareness around electric vehicles.

The Electric Forecourt will include disabled parking, access ramps, accessible washrooms and lifts to access all areas.

Jonathan Pollard, chief commercial officer at Gatwick Airport, said: “It’s fantastic to see construction of the UK’s first airport-based electric charging forecourt get underway at London Gatwick.

“The new Gridserve facility, opening next year, will provide passengers, staff, local residents, businesses and commuters with an excellent, state-of-the-art service. 

“It will also support London Gatwick’s sustainability targets, in line with Vinci Airports’ global environmental action plan to develop carbon-free energy for passengers and users – the first in the industry to be applied to a network of more than 50 airports in 11 countries.”

Following the opening of sites at Braintree and Norwich, this latest Electric Forecourt is part of Gridserve’s commitment to deliver more than 100 Electric Forecourts with planning permission already confirmed on Uckfield, Gateshead, Plymouth and Stevenage and more than 30 additional sites also under development.