Fastned has commenced construction of its flagship 16-bay ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging hub next to the OK Diner site at Cromwell Farm, Newark.
The landmark development will significantly increase charging capacity for drivers along the busy A1 corridor and marks a defining moment in Fastned’s UK expansion.
This start on site at the A1 northbound, Newark NG23 6JF, represents a major step forward in the company’s national rollout, positioning Newark as a flagship hub within its growing UK network. The station will feature ultra-rapid chargers capable of delivering up to 400 kW of power, enabling drivers to add up to 333 kilometres of range in as little as 10 minutes, depending on vehicle type.
The highly visible, on-highway location will become one of the largest stations in Fastned’s UK portfolio. Designed to serve thousands of drivers travelling along the A1 each day, the new hub will substantially increase ultra-rapid charging capacity in the region. The existing OK Diner will remain fully operational throughout the construction period, ensuring motorists can continue to stop and refresh while works are underway.
Tom Hurst, UK Country Director at Fastned, says: “Newark is one of the standout sites in our UK pipeline, a landmark project that reflects both the scale of our ambition and the growing demand for high-quality charging infrastructure. After years of planning and collaboration, it’s incredibly exciting to see construction begin on a hub that will make a real difference to drivers along the A1.”
Designed for comfort, safety and accessibility, the hub will include extra-wide bays to make parking and manoeuvring easy, including for drivers using wheelchairs or mobility aids. Suspended cable systems remove the need to lift heavy charging cables, while bright, open layouts with clear sightlines, high-quality lighting and CCTV coverage ensure a welcoming and secure environment for all.
Tom Hurst, UK Country Director at Fastned, adds: “This marks an important step in developing a future-ready charging network across the UK. Sites like this, in busy locations, are where reliable, ultra-rapid charging can make the biggest difference to everyday journeys and holiday trips. Once complete, the hub will allow drivers to recharge both their vehicles and themselves in one convenient stop, thanks to its co-location with the OK Diner.”
Delivered in partnership with the local Distribution Network Operator and OK Diners, the project will see an approximately six-month construction programme, with the station targeted to open in Q3 2026.
Dafydd Pool of OK Diners says: “We are excited to see that Fastned is beginning work at Cromwell Farm. Their expertise in ultra-rapid charging will transform this site into a key destination for the next generation of transport. With the OK Diner remaining open throughout construction, motorists can continue to refuel themselves while the hub takes shape. We are also exploring additional retail and vending options, which could make this stop-off an even more vibrant and energising experience for everyone.”
The Newark development underscores Fastned’s commitment to accelerating the UK’s transition to electric mobility by delivering reliable, high-powered charging infrastructure in the locations where drivers need it most.
A people-driven brand, Fastned places drivers at the heart of everything it does. From its iconic solar canopies and highly visible station design to its intuitive app, dependable ultra-rapid chargers and carefully selected premium locations, every element is built around making EV charging simple, reliable and seamless. By setting a new benchmark for quality and customer experience, Fastned is accelerating the UK’s transition to electric mobility.
