We were appointed to design Moto's first new build motorway service area in over ten years. To create a modern building, we first worked with the Moto team to review their existing sites to develop an entirely new brief. The next step was to obtain planning permission, which is often a challenge for motorway service areas in sensitive open countryside.
Working closely with Moto, we created a masterplan for the site that included access, circulation and parking for various vehicle types. The site was carefully illuminated, and tree blocks and raised mounds were incorporated into the design to screen the building from sensitive countryside. The pavilion-style buildings are integrated into the landscaped infrastructure.
Key public consultations were held throughout the process along with pre-application meetings with planning officers. This resulted in well-informed and developed proposals that achieved full planning permission at first attempt.
The service area opened at junction 1 on the M6 in 2021. It includes a dramatic glazed fronted amenity building, wide outdoor plaza, children's play area, and landscaped grounds. It has been planned to ensure a light, bright and navigable interior which is home to a seating and lounge area as well as food and beverage outlets. To support sustainable travel, it is home to 24 ultra-rapid electric vehicle charging stations, including 12 Tesla chargers, which visitors can access 24 hours a day.
