GRIDSERVE has officially opened its fifth and most advanced Electric Forecourt, further strengthening the UK’s rapidly expanding electric vehicle charging network. Located at Junction 29A of the M1 motorway—one of the busiest transport corridors in the country—the new Markham Vale site has been designed to support the accelerating adoption of electric vehicles with one of Europe’s most powerful public charging facilities.
The flagship location serves drivers across the East Midlands while also providing a strategic charging stop for commuters, businesses, commercial fleets and long-distance travelers.
39 Ultra-Rapid Charging Bays From Day One
The Markham Vale Electric Forecourt launches with 39 ultra-rapid charging bays, including:
– 36 charging bays for passenger EVs.
– Three drive-through bays designed for larger vehicles, including electric trucks, coaches, vans and vehicles towing trailers or caravans.
– Three dedicated accessible charging bays located close to the main entrance.
Every charging bay is equipped with ABB’s latest charging hardware capable of delivering up to 400kW, placing the site among the highest-powered public charging destinations in Europe.
Thanks to a new high-capacity grid connection, compatible next-generation electric vehicles, such as the BMW iX3 50, can add more than 200 miles (322 km) of driving range in less than 10 minutes under ideal conditions.
Convenient Charging Experience
GRIDSERVE has focused on making the charging experience as seamless as possible.
Drivers can pay using contactless bank cards, the GRIDSERVE mobile app or multiple third-party roaming partners.
Real-time charger availability is integrated into the GRIDSERVE app as well as popular navigation platforms including Zapmap, allowing drivers to plan charging stops with greater confidence before setting out.
Built With Sustainability in Mind
Like every Electric Super Hub on the GRIDSERVE Electric Highway, the Markham Vale chargers are powered by 100% net zero energy.
The retail building has also been designed with sustainability at its core, featuring 138 rooftop solar panels rated at 455W each and rainwater harvesting systems to reduce mains water consumption.
These features help lower the site’s environmental impact while supporting reliable, high-performance charging around the clock.
Driver Amenities
Beyond charging, the new Electric Forecourt offers several premium amenities designed to improve the overall travel experience. Visitors can enjoy: free high-speed Wi-Fi, premium customer lounge, Costa Coffee, Little Fresh convenience store, on-site staff available to assist with charging and answer questions about electric vehicles.
The building operates daily from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during the summer season, while the charging facilities remain available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Supporting the UK’s Rapid EV Growth
The opening comes as electric vehicle adoption continues to accelerate across the UK. According to GRIDSERVE, battery electric vehicles accounted for nearly one in four new vehicle registrations (24.9%) during the first half of 2026, marking the strongest sales period for EVs in the country’s history.
The company says the new site reflects growing expectations from EV drivers, who increasingly demand charging that is fast, reliable and conveniently located along major travel routes.
Markham Vale has been designed to accommodate a broad range of users—from local motorists and families to commercial fleet operators transitioning to electric transport.
Expanding a Nationwide Charging Network
The new Electric Forecourt further expands GRIDSERVE’s nationwide charging network, which now spans more than 200 locations across UK motorways and major A-roads.
As larger batteries, faster charging technologies and commercial electric vehicles become increasingly common, facilities like Markham Vale are expected to play a key role in supporting the next phase of electric mobility. With high-power charging, dedicated infrastructure for larger vehicles, accessible facilities and premium customer services, the site represents another significant step forward in the evolution of the UK’s public EV charging network.
