Ground Breaks on New Ultra-Rapid Charging Hub at Former Chicklade Services
Posted by: electime 5th January 2026
InstaVolt has officially broken ground on its landmark new ultra-rapid EV charging hub at the former Chicklade services on the A303. Set within the historic and picturesque Fonthill Estate, the development represents a major investment in the region’s charging infrastructure and a significant step forward in supporting the UK’s transition to electric mobility.
When complete, the hub will host over 30 ultra-rapid 160kW chargers, providing reliable, high-speed charging for drivers travelling along one of the South West’s busiest strategic routes. The site has been carefully designed to offer a first-class customer experience, including 24-hour WC facilities, 59 customer parking spaces, and 11 dedicated staff spaces.
Plans also include an upmarket farm shop and café, offering local produce and high-quality refreshments for visitors. The development will be further enhanced by landscaped outdoor seating, green spaces, and a children’s play area. A new footpath linking the hub to the village of Chicklade is also set to be constructed, improving access and supporting community connectivity.
To mark the occasion, InstaVolt CEO Delvin Lane was joined by Wiltshire Council Leader, Ian Thorn, Fonthill Estate Owner and Steward, Lord Alastair Margadale, and Project Manager, Bruno Skinner.
Delvin Lane, CEO of Instavolt said: “This groundbreaking marks an exciting milestone for InstaVolt and for EV drivers across the South West. We are proud to be working within the beautiful Fonthill Estate, and the site will be sensitively landscaped to reflect and protect its surroundings. Our plans also include energy generated from solar installations and supported by battery storage, helping to strengthen energy resilience and reduce demand on the grid.”
Ian Thorn, Leader of Wiltshire Council, added: “We welcome InstaVolt’s investment in sustainable transport infrastructure. This hub will not only support electric vehicle drivers but also enhance the local area through thoughtful design and community-friendly amenities. It’s an exciting development that will help better connect the region and benefit both residents and visitors alike.”
Lord Alastair Margadale further commented: “My son Declan Morrison and I are delighted and immensely proud to be partnering with InstaVolt. We very much look forward to seeing what we believe will be a beautifully designed EV charging station, one that will enhance the Fonthill Estate and support the transition to sustainable transport.”
The new InstaVolt Chicklade hub is scheduled to open in late Summer 2026.
