Barnstaple gets boost with new EV charging hub

A new rapid-charging hub for electric vehicles (EVs) has opened at Queen Street Car Park in Barnstaple, providing a boost to the town’s EV infrastructure.

The hub, built in partnership between Osprey Charging Network and North Devon Council, features six 300kW chargers. 

These chargers are capable of delivering up to 100 miles of range in 15-20 minutes, depending on the vehicle model and battery. 

The site is compatible with all EV models and supports various payment methods, including contactless, app-based transactions, and fleet cards.

The Queen Street hub is part of a wider rollout by Osprey Charging Network, which has also opened a similar facility at The Countryman’s Choice Farm Shop and Restaurant in Ivybridge. 

Both locations are designed to meet increasing demand for EV charging as the UK transitions towards the 2035 ban on new petrol and diesel vehicle sales.

Ian Johnston, CEO of Osprey Charging, commented: “The roll-out of EV charging facilities is quickly gathering pace, and we’re here to provide a reliable and rapid public charging service for all drivers, from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands. The two new charging hubs in Devon form a vital part of the re-charging network that will enable the decarbonisation of transport in the UK.”

The Queen Street hub is powered by renewable energy and was funded by Osprey, which also oversees its operation and maintenance. 

The chargers join Osprey’s growing national network, which now includes over 1,250 charging bays.

This project follows the opening of Osprey’s super-hub at Salmon’s Leap on the A38 near Buckfastleigh and is the company’s fifth partnership with local councils.

The charging facilities are intended to serve both residents and visitors, supporting the use of electric vehicles and contributing to the UK’s national EV infrastructure.