Plans to demolish a Measham car wash and set up an electric vehicle charging zone have been given the go-ahead.

An application for the work to be carried out at Measham Service Station in Ashby Road was made in July to North West Leicestershire District Council.

The scheme called for the demolition of the garage's car wash and the creation of a charging zone and six electric vehicle points, along with three jet wash bays.

The application was made by the St Alban's-based Motor Fuel Group which already has planning permission for a similar scheme in Ashby.

A council officer's report says that the development would operate alongside the existing uses - within the wider site - which comprise of a petrol filling station with retail shop.

In a letter to the district council, Motor Fuel Group stated the case for the installation of charging points in the area.

It reads: "The UK has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 28 per cent by 2035 and moving to Net Zero by 2050. As part of the net zero strategy, the UK government has placed a new emphasis on electric vehicle, charging infrastructure in the UK.

"As part of this Drive, it is essential that there is a comprehensive and competitive electric vehicle charging network in place.

"Forecasts suggest that at least 280,000-480,000 public charge points will be needed by 2030 – more than 10 times the current number (around 25,000).

"Rapid charging for longer journeys located in areas, such as on motorways, and in remote areas will be particular important.

"At present, it is understood that the uneven spread of electrical charging facilities significantly hinders the take-up of electric vehicles, due to potential servicing constraints.

"En route charging on the longer journeys is deemed crucial to support the switch to EV and reduce concerns about charge range anxiety.

"Moto Fuel group is looking to rollout an extensive supply of EV charging facilities at existing and new service stations across the UK to diversify their existing offer, with the aspiration to make it as easy to charge your vehicle as refuelling with petrol or diesel.

"The aspiration of Motor Fuel Group is to provide access to convenient affordable charging, regardless of whether drivers are located.

"The Measham Service Station proposals are linked to the demolition of the car wash and provision of six electric vehicle charging points."