Plans submitted for revamped Shell petrol station on A55 in Flintshire

Shell UK Oil Products Ltd has submitted plans for a partial redevelopment of its Northop Hall petrol station, located along the A55 in Flintshire.

The proposal includes demolishing the existing sales building and replacing it with a larger, modern facility to better serve motorists and local residents.

The planning application, prepared by JMS Planning & Development, details the intention to upgrade the site’s amenities.

The new sales building will feature an expanded retail area of 145 square metres—more than double the size of the current shop—and include new customer facilities such as accessible toilets, showers, and an ATM.

According to the submission, the redevelopment aims to enhance Northop Hall’s roadside services by upgrading facilities to meet modern standards and better serve the needs of motorists and local residents.

The site will retain its existing fuel forecourt and HGV services, with minor updates to parking and circulation areas.

Strategic Location

Situated on the northbound side of the A55, a key route linking North Wales and Cheshire, the site is an important stop for both local residents and passing motorists.

The facility currently operates alongside nearby businesses, including a Travelodge, Starbucks, and Greggs.

The application highlights the national trend of declining petrol station numbers, which have dropped by 36% since 2000, and the increasing demand from a growing number of vehicles on UK roads.

The planning statement notes: “Petrol filling stations are a vital necessity and can often function as a community hub.”

Environmental Considerations

According to documents submitted as part of the planning application, the proposed redevelopment incorporates sustainable elements, such as modern materials and solar panels on the new building’s roof.

A modest increase in parking, including two accessible bays, will be offset by improved landscaping, with some hardstanding areas being replaced with greenery to enhance biodiversity.

If approved, the redevelopment is expected to secure existing jobs and create additional employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases.

Planning Context

The site has a long-established use as a petrol station and is not subject to ecological, heritage, or flood constraints.

Recent planning history includes the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging points and upgrades to forecourt infrastructure.

Flintshire County Council’s local development plan encourages the retention and enhancement of roadside facilities, recognising their importance to both the economy and community.

Next Steps

The planning application is now under review, with a decision expected in the coming months.

If approved, construction is anticipated to begin in 2025, with minimal disruption to the site’s day-to-day operations.

The planning statement concludes: “The opportunity to deliver an enhanced petrol filling station which meets a recognised local need should be embraced.”