Bluewater to host UK’s largest destination EV charging hub
RAW Charging and Landsec expand their network with 1,000 new bays across major retail sites.
RAW Charging is partnering with Landsec to develop what will become the UK’s largest destination EV charging hub at Bluewater, as part of a £24.5 million rollout across some of the country’s most visited retail destinations. The programme includes the installation of 1,000 new charging bays at 28 locations, combining fast AC and rapid DC units to support growing demand for on‑site charging while shopping, dining or visiting leisure facilities.
The initiative aims to help retailers and landlords meet rising customer expectations by offering reliable, high‑quality charging that increases dwell time and enhances the overall visitor experience. Several sites are already live, with the remaining installations progressing throughout the year.
“With millions of visitors each year, Landsec’s destinations are ideal for large‑scale charging hubs that give drivers confidence on arrival,” said Neil Broadbank, Chief Commercial Officer at RAW Charging. Ben Padley, Head of Consumer at Landsec, added that embedding future‑ready charging across the portfolio is essential as more drivers switch to electric vehicles.
A central component of the long‑term partnership is the upgrade of outdated charging units to ensure faster, more dependable and more accessible charging. According to the companies, the modernised infrastructure will allow drivers to achieve a meaningful top‑up within typical retail visit times, ranging from 30 to 90 minutes.
Chargers will support contactless payment and integration with major EV‑charging apps, ensuring broad accessibility for the more than 20 million visitors who pass through Landsec destinations each year. The wider RAW Charging network already supports well‑known locations such as National Trust estates, Merlin Entertainments attractions and McArthurGlen outlets, collectively powering more than 400,000 electric journeys annually.
