Zest urban charging hub opens in Ashton-under-Lyne

Zest, one of the UK’s fastest-growing investor-operators of public access EV charging infrastructure, has opened a new urban charging hub on Cavendish Street in Ashton-under-Lyne, expanding access to ultra-rapid charging in Greater Manchester.

The hub offers 14 charging bays capable of speeds up to 160kW. Users can pay via the Zest app, contactless payment, or through the Octopus Electroverse and Plugsurfing apps, while commercial drivers can also charge using the Allstar app.

With pricing set at 65p per kWh, this is one of the most cost-effective ultra-rapid and rapid charging options in the town. The initiative has been warmly welcomed by residents, businesses, and community leaders.

This launch follows similar urban charging hubs recently opened by Zest in London, Birmingham, Leicester and Bolton, as part of the company’s mission to expand EV infrastructure in underserved areas across the UK.

Councillor Kaleel Kahn of Tameside Council, said:

“I’m delighted to see the installation of new electric vehicle chargers on Cavendish Street. This initiative will make it easier for residents and visitors in Ashton-under-Lyne, including those in the Ashton St. Peters ward, to embrace cleaner, greener transport options. By improving access to EV charging, we’re taking an important step toward a more sustainable future for our community - something I am passionate about.”

Robin Heap, CEO at Zest, said:

“To meet the growing demand for electric vehicles, we need abundant charging infrastructure in the places people need it, close to where they live and work. This new urban hub in Ashton-under-Lyne provides a long-term solution, making charging more accessible today while helping to future-proof the town. Supporting the shift to electric vehicles is essential for improving urban air quality and tackling climate change, and infrastructure like this makes that transition more practical for more people.”

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