Tesla has submitted proposals for a new electric vehicle charging facility next door to a McDonald's restaurant just off the A303 in Somerset.
The Wincanton Gateway site lies north of the dual carriageway off the A371 Lawrence Hill, and currently includes the Wagtail pub, a McDonald's, a Starbucks and a Travelodge.
Tesla has applied to create a charging hub adjacent to the McDonald's, accessed from an existing spur off Long Close.
Somerset Council is expected to make a decision on the proposed development before Christmas.
The proposed facility will comprise 16 Tesla 'supercharger' units covered with a solar canopy, along with a substation and a battery energy stage unit (allowing energy generated from the solar panels to be stored and used later, reducing pressure on the existing grid network).
The existing access arrangements will be enhanced, with an improved footpath being delivered on the western edge of the site to link up with a proposed drive-thru unit on the adjoining land, which was approved back in July 2023.
A spokesperson for Planning Potential (representing the applicant) said: "The proposed supercharging facility will contribute to the government's wider transition towards ultra-low and zero-emission mobility, and will support local ambitions for decarbonisation and improved air quality.
"Tesla's network is available to all EVs and is not exclusive to Tesla vehicles.
"The western parcel of land is expected to come forward as an independent drive-thru development, with its own access and layout.
"The proposed development seeks to bring this part of the site forward as EV charging infrastructure, making effective use of the land while not prejudicing the delivery or future operation of the western parcel for drive-thru use, or any alternative use that may come forward.
"The proposed development represents an appropriate and sustainable form of development within an established commercial area adjacent to the strategic road network.
"The proposal would deliver essential low-carbon transport infrastructure in a location that is well-placed to serve both local users and longer-distance journeys on the A303 corridor."
The council is expected to make a decision on the proposals before the end of the year.
If approval is granted, construction could begin early in the new year, meaning the charging hub could be up and running for both locals and visitors by the spring of 2027.
