A truckstop just off the M1 in Hertfordshire has been acquired by Certas Energy, as the fuel distributor looks to make good on its ambition to become the biggest non-motorway truckstop operator in the country.
Watling Street sits on the A5183 less than half a mile from J9 of the M1 between St Albans and Watford, and just seven miles north of the M25. It is described as a “vital freight hub” by Certas.
Work on upgrading the site is already underway, with a new hot food and coffee stand opening this week, and Certas having earmarked £350,000 to improve the site.
A full rebrand, refurbished kitchen, improved security and parking, HVO fuel, solar panels, Spotless Water, charging for electric trucks and new card readers for the facility’s four fuel tanks are amongst the planned improvements, which are expected to bring 13 new jobs to the truckstop.
Back in 2021 Certas bought the UK’s oldest truck stop, The Hollies, on the A5 just north of Wolverhampton, then, towards the end of last year, the company’s board gave the go-ahead to acquire or construct 10 further truck stops.
Mike Heaton, Certas’ head of estate development said the Watling Street acquisition “marks a key milestone in our long-term strategy to invest in high-quality infrastructure that supports the comfort, safety and wellbeing of UK truckers.”
He added:
“Our drivers help to keep the country moving, and we recognise the need for better services that allow them to rest and recover. Thanks to a full refurbishment, TheStop at The Hollies is now a Grade A facility, and we plan to bring Watling Street up to the same high standard, offering a better experience to existing and new customers.”
Watling Street will reopen under Certas’ ownership on 24 February.
