Tesla’s application for permission to build 12 new Superchargers at Hunton Park Hotel in Hertfordshire, U.K., has been denied by the Three Rivers District Council — reports the Watford Observer.
The company was seeking permission to install 12 Supercharger stations and associated equipment in an overflow parking space on the Hunton Park Hotel premises.
A planning statement from Tesla said the Superchargers would “strengthen” the local electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Tesla also cited the council’s declaration of a climate emergency and its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions.
However, the Three Rivers District Council saw Tesla’s proposed development as “inappropriate” for the green belt at the location. A council officer concluded that the Supercharger stations would pose “harm to the significance” of the Grade II listed hotel. The officer added that Tesla’s proposed changes to the site would also fail to “preserve” the openness of the green belt.
This isn’t the first time Tesla has faced difficulty in obtaining permits for new Superchargers in England. Back in 2019, the company’s application for 16 Superchargers was thrown out by a planning inspector. What’s more, similar plans were once again rejected by the Three Rivers District Council in 2021.
On the flip side, Tesla recently received funding to build more than 30 new Superchargers in New South Wales, Australia. Tesla is rapidly expanding its global Supercharger network — the automaker opened 17 new locations just last week.
