Allego opened the first ultra-rapid charging site in Westbury, Wiltshire, according to the Netherlands-based chargepoint operator. The facility features four connectors delivering up to 200kW charging speeds.
Located alongside the A3098 at Leigh Park Community Centre, the site addresses a significant gap in Wiltshire’s charging infrastructure. The county currently falls behind the UK national average for public charging availability.
The 200kW charging speed allows drivers to add substantial range in about 20 minutes.
That timeframe depends on each vehicle’s maximum charging capacity. Most modern EVs can handle these speeds, though older models may charge slower.
Addressing Infrastructure Gaps
The new hub’s opening coincides with Wiltshire Council’s consideration of a 15-year program that could deliver over 2,000 charge points countywide by 2040. Local officials estimate EV numbers in the county will increase more than fivefold by 2030.
This growth reflects the UK Government’s clean transport initiatives. The Electric Car Grant and £200 million investment in public charger rollout continue driving adoption across rural areas like Wiltshire.
Paz Sharma, Allego’s managing director, emphasized the site’s role in supporting the transition to electric transport.
“EVs have a critical and increasing role in achieving net zero ambitions, and convenient, reliable charge points are key to encouraging their adoption,” Sharma said. “We’re proud to deliver the first ultra-rapid charging station for Westbury, strengthening the town’s charging network and complementing the wider county’s clean transport efforts.”
The site serves both local residents and drivers passing through the area. Westbury’s location makes it a natural stopping point for longer journeys requiring rapid charging.
Expanding Network Presence
Allego operates 64 charging stations across the UK as part of its 35,000-strong European network. The company is exploring partnerships with local businesses and venues to install additional public charging hubs in Wiltshire.
These partnerships support the local economy while expanding charging access. Business locations often provide convenient amenities for drivers during charging sessions.
The EVA recently launched a constituency-by-constituency map showing the UK’s best and worst areas for public EV charging infrastructure. This tool allows residents to lobby local representatives directly about infrastructure rollout in their area.
Local authorities, chargepoint operators, and policymakers can use the map to compare with neighbors and regional averages – providing valuable context for planning decisions.
