New service station on M1 in region is greenest yet
ONE OF the country’s greenest motorway services has officially launched, with a “living roof ” and wildlife centre to encourage drivers to take a break from their journey.
The new £64m Leeds Skelton Lake Services on the M1 has been hailed by business leaders as a welcome addition in driving a clean energy revolution for the region.
With electric-vehicle charging points, a nature roof made of flowers and shrubbery and overlooking the scenic wildlife centre, it has been recognised as among the most advanced services in the country. While it opened partially in March, it has now formally launched, with more shops beginning to open.
The chairman of the Leeds City Region, Roger Marsh, believes it will boost connectivity, future-proof transport links and drive economic growth. He said: “Our region, and the wider Northern Powerhouse, is leading the way on driving the clean growth revolution and the promotion of schemes like these that promote electric-vehicle charging points is a crucial part of this.
“We have a unique opportunity across the North to unlock the economic opportunities that de-carbonising our economy will bring and embrace the new technologies that will drive our future growth.”
Run by Extra MSA, there is a hotel on site and later this year a business centre and community area will be launched.
Andrew Long, Extra MSA chief executive, said: “This new motorway service area gives road users a safe place to rest, eat and refuel as well as being an important contribution to road safety and playing an integral role in supporting the national economy.”
He added: “Motorists will find a visually stunning place to stop off during their journey.
“They will have a full range of selected brand partners on-site, some of whom are a first for the UK motorway network.”