Own roadside land? Discover whether your site could be suitable for EV charging, drive-thru food, or roadside retail development.
Roadside land is becoming increasingly valuable as travel patterns change and demand grows for EV charging infrastructure, drive-thru food outlets, and roadside retail. Many landowners are unaware that land which has limited traditional development appeal may be ideally suited to these uses.
This article explains what makes roadside land suitable for EV charging or drive-thru development — and how landowners can unlock this opportunity.
Why Roadside Land Is in Demand
Changes in consumer behaviour, increased vehicle usage, and the transition to electric vehicles have created strong demand for roadside development.
Key drivers include:
- Rapid growth in EV ownership
- Demand for fast, convenient charging locations
- Continued popularity of drive-thru food and coffee outlets
- Retailers seeking high-visibility roadside sites
As a result, well-located roadside land can command significant premiums.
What Makes Roadside Land Suitable?
Not all roadside sites are equal. Successful EV or drive-thru developments typically share several key characteristics.
1. Strong Traffic Flows
High daily vehicle movements are critical. Sites on:
- A-roads
- Strategic B-roads
- Near junctions or roundabouts
- Close to service areas or commuter routes
are particularly attractive.
2. Visibility and Access
Clear visibility from the road and safe vehicular access are essential.
Highways constraints can often be overcome, but early assessment is vital.
3. Sufficient Plot Size
Even compact sites can work, but space is required for:
- Vehicle circulation
- Parking and queuing
- Charging bays or drive-thru lanes
EV Charging Development Considerations
EV charging hubs are becoming a key component of roadside development.
Key Requirements
- Power supply capacity or upgrade potential
- Ability to install substations or transformers
- Suitable access for short-stay vehicles
- Proximity to amenities (coffee, toilets, retail)
Planning Advantages
Local authorities are increasingly supportive of EV infrastructure due to sustainability targets, making planning consent more achievable in many locations.
Drive-Thru and Roadside Retail Uses
Drive-thru food, coffee outlets, and roadside retail remain in strong demand.
Popular Operators Seek:
- High-visibility roadside plots
- Fast access and exit
- Consistent traffic throughout the day
- Locations near residential or employment areas
Even land unsuitable for housing may be ideal for these commercial uses.
Planning Considerations for Roadside Development
Policy Support
Many Local Plans encourage roadside commercial uses in appropriate locations, particularly where:
- They do not harm residential amenity
- Traffic impact can be managed
- Economic and employment benefits are demonstrated
Common Constraints
- Highway safety and access
- Noise and lighting
- Landscape or Green Belt considerations
These issues can often be addressed through careful design and planning strategy.
How Landowners Can Unlock Value
There are several ways to progress roadside development:
- Land promotion to secure planning permission and market the site
- Option agreements with EV operators or commercial developers
- Outright sale for a quicker, unconditional transaction
- Consultancy advice to test feasibility and value
The right approach depends on location, timescale, and landowner objectives.
Why Early Professional Advice Matters
Roadside development often involves:
- Complex highways negotiations
- Power and utilities assessments
- Commercial viability testing
- Targeted operator engagement
Landowners who seek expert advice early typically achieve stronger outcomes and avoid costly mistakes.
Free Roadside Land Assessment
If you own roadside land and are unsure whether it could be suitable for EV charging, drive-thru development, or roadside retail, we offer a free, no-obligation assessment.
We’ll review:
- Location and access
- Planning policy
- Commercial viability
- The best route to market
👉 Submit your land today and discover its roadside development potential.