THE opening of the UK's first ever electric vehicle charging station has been delayed.

The state-of-the-art facility built off the A131 near Great Notley was due to open this month.

But the firm behind the project, Gridserve, has confirmed the opening has been pushed back due to the impact of the latest lockdown.

The company tweeted: "We're super excited to open the UK's first Electric Forecourt in Braintree and we know you are too.

"Due to recent restrictions, we are not opening in November as planned.

"But don't worry - you won't be waiting much longer.

"Keep following for updates."

The new facility will provide charging for up 30 electric vehicles.

WHSmith will run a small supermarket at the site, while Costa Coffee will set up a new cafe area and Post Office will also provide services from it.

Experts say the new forecourt will deliver up to 350kW of charging power, enabling people to add 200 miles of range in just 20 minutes.