A petrol station in Swindon is set to undergo exciting changes as work gets underway.

Shell garage on Marlborough Road is a popular stop for commuters filling up on petrol and diesel, but soon it will be able to cater to more cars in Swindon.

The garage became blocked off to the public during the week beginning November 19, as large metal fences were set up around the pumps and large containers appeared.

The sight created confusion for many Swindon motorists, who were forced to go elsewhere for their petrol and diesel.

According to Shell, work at the site is set to last three weeks, and it will open again on Monday, December 9.

But speaking to the Adver, a worker at Marlborough Road's Shell confirmed this was all for a good reason.

Work is underway at the Shell garage on Marlborough RoadWork is underway at the Shell garage on Marlborough Road (Image: Dave Cox) "They're installing new EV chargers so we can soon cater to petrol cars, diesel cars, and electric cars," said the worker.

"They're going to be set up there working until December 9, and we can't wait to open again and welcome in new customers as well as old one."

According to planning permission submitted by Motor Fuel Group, the new chargers will be covered by a canopy with parking spaces at five chargers at the back of the site further from the road.

Access will be from the same entrance and exits as already used by the cars using the petrol station.

The application states: “Motor Fuel Group is to make it as easy to charge your vehicle as re-fuelling with petrol or diesel. The aspiration of Motor Fuel Group is to provide access to convenient and affordable charging, regardless of where the driver lives.

“The proposals will enhance the existing offer at the service station, without compromising the efficient operation of the facility.

“In terms of design, the proposed EV charging area has been carefully planned to positively integrate with the existing service station operation.

"The charging facility offers a modern design approach, which is uncluttered and fit for purpose.”

The exact speed of the chargers being installed has not yet been confirmed, but MFG's 2030 targets include having ultra-rapid chargers installed at over 500 sites. 

The Shell garage, which includes a shop and a toilet, already offers Shell V-Power Unleaded, Shell V-Power Diesel and Shell FuelSave Unleaded.

Help support trusted local news

Sign up for a digital subscription now: https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/subscribe/

As a digital subscriber, you will get:            

  • Unlimited access to the Swindon Advertiser website        
  • Advert-light access             
  • Reader rewards             
  • Full access to our app