PROPOSALS to install four rapid electric vehicle charging stations in a shopping centre car park have been approved by Maldon District Council.

Plans were submitted to turn six existing parking spaces at Bentalls Shopping Centre car park into four EV charging bays.

The application says one of the charging bays would be fully accessible.

A planning officer had recommended the proposals for approval.

They said: “The proposed development, by reason of its location and design would not harm the appearance or character of the locality due to its context within the setting and wider application site of which it would serve and would not result in any undue harm by way of overlooking or loss of amenity. 

“No objection is raised in terms of flood risk and the loss of two parking spaces would not substantially impact the site or locality.”

The Highway Authority said it had no objection to the plans.

Before the approval decision was made, a spokesman from gas company Cadent said they had no objections to the plans in principle, but highlighted a pipeline near the work area which would need to be protected.