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Project Overview
Client
Extra Services
Location
Cobham
Date Complete
2026
Sector
Transport
Background
As the UK's motorway network continues its transition towards greener transport, the demand for reliable and accessible electric vehicle chargers has grown significantly. Cobham Services on the M25, has established itself as a leading destination for EV drivers through the development of a major EV Super Hub.
The site has recently undergone a significant expansion with the addition of 24 new high speed electric vehicle chargers. These latest generation charging units are capable of delivering up to 400kW of power, allowing compatible vehicles to gain more than 100 miles of driving range in under 10 minutes. The investment supports the wider goal of making the motorway network more sustainable while encouraging greater adoption of electric vehicles across the UK.
Alongside the installation of advanced charging infrastructure came the need to ensure the safety, security, and long term protection of these valuable assets. High performance EV charging equipment represents a substantial financial investment and contains critical electrical components that must be safeguarded from both accidental damage and deliberate interference.
To address these concerns, a comprehensive fencing and access protection solution was required around the area.
Challenge
While the new electric vehicle chargers greatly enhanced charging capacity at Cobham Services, the project team faced several important challenges.
Protecting High Value Infrastructure
The charging equipment contains sophisticated electronics, high voltage systems, and valuable copper cabling. As EV charging infrastructure becomes more widespread, incidents of theft and vandalism have become a growing concern across the sector. Unauthorized access can result in costly repairs, service interruptions, and potential safety risks.
The site therefore required a physical barrier capable of deterring opportunistic crime while clearly defining the area and restricting access to sensitive electrical infrastructure.
Preventing Vehicle Impact Damage
With dozens of charging bays operating throughout the day, vehicle movements within the charging zone are constant. Even low speed collisions can cause significant damage to charging equipment, resulting in downtime and expensive replacement costs.
Additional protection measures, alongside the existing bollards, were needed to shield the chargers from accidental impacts while maintaining safe and convenient access for EV drivers.
Enhancing Pedestrian Safety
Busy charging hubs attract a steady flow of drivers and passengers moving around the site. The site required a solution that would clearly separate pedestrian routes from charging infrastructure and define the area to discourage misuse.
Maintaining Ventilation Around Electrical Equipment
One of the key design considerations was the need to maintain adequate airflow around the charging infrastructure. Unlike solid screening solutions, the enclosure needed to provide a degree of screening while still allowing natural ventilation throughout the area.
The fencing solution therefore had to balance security, appearance, and practical performance.
Solution
To meet these requirements, a tailored fencing and protection system was installed around the EV charging hub, combining perimeter fencing, impact protection products, and matching access gates.
Venetian Hit and Miss Fencing
The chosen solution was approximately 80 metres of Venetian Hit and Miss fence panels and matching gates.
This style of fencing was particularly suited to the environment surrounding the electric vehicle chargers because it provides an attractive visual screen while still allowing air and light to pass through the structure. The alternating slat design helps maintain continuous ventilation around the charging equipment, preventing the enclosed area from feeling confined while supporting airflow around the electrical infrastructure.
Additional benefits included:
- Superior quality Jakcure® treated softwood guaranteed for 25 years
- Double slatted construction providing an attractive appearance from both sides
- Stainless steel fixings used throughout for maximum durability
- Fully planed timber for a premium finish
- Excellent balance between security, aesthetics, and ventilation
- Compatibility with heavy duty slotted Jakposts
The fencing helped create a clearly defined charging compound without the harsh appearance often associated with industrial security fencing. To ensure long term durability, the fencing was installed using heavy duty slotted posts set in concrete. This robust construction method delivers the strength required for a busy motorway service environment while protecting the fence from ground moisture and everyday wear.
Matching Double Leaf Access Gates
To allow maintenance access while maintaining site security, matching Venetian Hit and Miss double leaf gates were incorporated into the installation with drop bolts for additional security.
These gates provide controlled access for authorised personnel while preserving the visual consistency of the fencing system.
Improved Safety and Security
Together, the fencing, gates, and protective bollards deliver multiple benefits for the EV Super Hub:
- Deters theft of valuable copper cabling and electrical components
- Restricts unauthorised access to high voltage infrastructure
- Reduces the risk of vandalism and tampering
- Protects charging equipment from vehicle impacts
- Creates a clearly defined charging zone
- Improves pedestrian safety
- Prevents misuse of charging spaces by non-EV vehicles
- Maintains airflow and ventilation around electrical equipment
- Provides an attractive and professional appearance
The completed installation provides Cobham Services with a secure and visually appealing environment for its expanded network of electric vehicle chargers. By combining durable fencing, matching gates, and specialist charger protection systems, the site now benefits from enhanced security, improved safety, and long term protection for critical EV infrastructure.
Installation Note: The gates have been hung directly between the posts. While this approach is sometimes chosen by installers for site-specific reasons, it is not a method we would generally recommend as it leaves sight gaps. Additionally, the top hinges have been installed facing downwards, for security.
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