London

UK MPs Criticise Slow and Uneven Rollout of EV Charging Points

Published

4 hours ago

March 12, 2025

UK MPs Criticise Slow and Uneven Rollout of EV Charging Points

Members of Parliament have expressed strong criticism regarding the UK government’s approach to installing electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, calling the progress “patchy” and significantly behind schedule. This concern comes amid a critical parliamentary report highlighting key shortcomings, notably regional disparities, inadequate accessibility, and funding delays that threaten the UK’s shift towards cleaner transportation.

Unequal Regional Distribution

A major issue identified by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is the significant imbalance in the availability of EV charging points across different regions of the UK. Currently, almost half (approximately 43%) of the UK’s public EV chargers are concentrated in London and the South East of England. This leaves many other regions, particularly in rural and northern areas, underserved, creating considerable barriers for drivers looking to switch to electric vehicles.

For instance, drivers in northern regions, rural communities, and smaller towns face challenges in finding conveniently located charging stations. This uneven distribution could potentially slow the overall adoption of EVs and deepen existing economic divides, hindering nationwide progress toward sustainability targets.

Accessibility Challenges for Disabled Drivers

Accessibility for disabled drivers remains a significant barrier, with MPs highlighting that no existing public charging point fully meets the standards established more than two years ago. Many disabled drivers report difficulties in using existing chargers due to problematic placement, obstructed access, inadequate lighting, and other design flaws.

Disability advocacy groups have stressed the urgent need for compliance with accessibility standards to ensure that all drivers, including those with disabilities, can benefit equally from EV adoption. MPs have urged the government to enforce these standards swiftly to foster inclusivity within the transport transition.

Financial Barriers and Increased Costs

In addition to accessibility and geographic disparities, MPs expressed concerns about financial inequalities facing drivers dependent on public charging points. Currently, VAT rates are significantly higher for electricity used at public chargers compared to home charging, increasing costs substantially for drivers without private parking facilities. This situation disproportionately affects individuals living in flats or rental properties who lack private access to charging infrastructure.

The committee urges the government to reconsider these taxation disparities, advocating for equal treatment of all EV users regardless of their charging location.

Delays in Funding and Infrastructure Development

Another critical finding was the significant delay in government funding allocations designed to enhance charging infrastructure. A substantial £950 million fund, announced in 2020, intended to strengthen the electricity supply capacity at strategic road networks, has yet to be effectively distributed. MPs criticized the slow approval rate for local authority projects, suggesting that bureaucratic delays are hindering necessary improvements.

Additionally, around one-third of motorway service areas currently lack targeted ultra-rapid chargers, essential for longer-distance travel. This gap creates anxiety among EV owners who rely on motorway networks for journeys, further deterring potential buyers from switching to electric vehicles.

Government’s Response and Future Plans

In response to the criticism, the Department for Transport (DfT) has acknowledged the challenges but emphasized ongoing investment and the introduction of new initiatives aimed at resolving these issues. The DfT highlighted plans to accelerate charger installations across under-served regions and claimed efforts are underway to improve accessibility compliance nationwide.

The department also pointed out that significant steps have been made in recent months, including increased partnerships with private companies and local authorities to expedite charging point installations. Despite these assurances, MPs remain unconvinced by the pace of progress and continue to call for more urgent action to rectify the situation.

Recommendations for Improved Outcomes

To address these challenges effectively, MPs recommend several targeted actions:
Swift distribution of existing funds to support regional and rural infrastructure.
Ensuring all charging points meet required accessibility standards immediately.
Equalizing VAT rates to remove financial barriers for users reliant on public chargers.
Greater accountability and transparency in the funding and deployment processes to avoid future delays.

Moving Forward

The report emphasizes the importance of addressing these pressing concerns to ensure the UK meets its ambitious environmental targets and reduces transportation-related emissions effectively. MPs stressed that failure to promptly rectify these issues could severely hinder the country’s goal of widespread EV adoption and undermine the nation’s broader climate goals.

In conclusion

the MPs’ critique calls for urgent and inclusive action to ensure equitable access to EV infrastructure across the UK, essential for achieving sustainable transportation and environmental objectives.

Celebrities

Una Healy Sparks Fan Excitement with Upcoming ‘House of Games’ Appearance

Published

4 hours ago

March 12, 2025

William Watson

Una Healy Sparks Fan Excitement with Upcoming 'House of Games' Appearance

Irish singer and beloved TV personality Una Healy recently created a wave of excitement among her fans by revealing her upcoming participation in the BBC game show, Richard Osman’s House of Games. The announcement, accompanied by vibrant behind-the-scenes snapshots shared on her Instagram account, has left her followers eagerly awaiting the episode’s broadcast.

Stylish Appearance on Set

Healy, known for her stylish presence, did not disappoint as she showcased her fashion-forward sense, appearing in a chic black midi dress embellished with eye-catching silver studs. The look was completed by elegant black ankle boots, perfectly reflecting her sophisticated yet contemporary style.

Star-Studded Contestant Lineup

Joining Healy on the show are several popular faces, including comedian Emmanuel Sonubi, actress Joanna Page, and actor Jack P. Shepherd, making for a lively and entertaining lineup. In her social media post, Healy expressed genuine excitement and warmth towards her fellow contestants, indicating a fun-filled and engaging experience.

Fans React with Enthusiasm

Fans swiftly responded with enthusiastic support, flooding social media with anticipation and positive comments. Many expressed their love for both Healy and the popular show format, highlighting their eagerness for the upcoming episode.

Continuing a Versatile Career

Richard Osman’s House of Games marks another exciting opportunity for Healy, who recently appeared on Netflix’s Celebrity Bear Hunt. Her diverse roles in entertainment continue to attract significant public interest and acclaim.

Awaiting Broadcast Details

Although the specific air date for Healy’s episode has yet to be confirmed, anticipation continues to build as fans eagerly await further details. Her presence is expected to draw significant viewership, adding yet another memorable chapter to her diverse and vibrant career in entertainment.

Entertainment

Best Rage Rooms in London for Couples, Groups, and Corporate Events

Published

4 weeks ago

February 14, 2025

William Watson

The city of London never sleeps. Between the crowded Tube rides, endless work deadlines, and the constant buzz of life, stress builds up like steam in a pressure cooker. Now, imagine a place where you can smash that stress away—literally.

Welcome to the world of rage rooms in London, where frustration meets destruction in a controlled and thrilling environment. Whether you’re looking to blow off steam after a tough week, bond with friends over some satisfying destruction, or just experience the sheer joy of breaking things, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of the top 10 rage rooms in London in 2025, ranked by customer ratings, where you can let loose and leave feeling lighter.

What Are Rage Rooms?

Rage rooms, also called smash rooms, allow people to vent frustration by breaking objects. Visitors are equipped with protective gear and can destroy glass bottles, electronics, and furniture using tools like bats and hammers.

This concept started in the early 2000s and has since gained popularity worldwide. Rage rooms in London are now among the top stress-relief activities for individuals and groups alike. They are perfect for couples looking for a fun date night, groups wanting a thrilling bonding experience, and corporate teams needing a unique team-building activity.

if you’re searching for where to find rage rooms in London in 2025 or need an eco-friendly smash room with recycled items, there’s an option for you.

Why Are Smash Romms So Popular?

With increasing daily stress, people are turning to unconventional ways to relax. Rage rooms in London offer an instant emotional release that meditation and exercise may not provide. From office workers letting loose to friends having a fun outing, these experiences are becoming the go-to for stress relief, birthday parties, and corporate events.

Many also find them to be a therapeutic way to process emotions in a controlled setting. Whether you’re looking for affordable smash rooms in London for groups, unique rage room experiences in London for couples, or smash rooms in London offering electronic destruction, you’ll find a great fit.

How to Choose the Best Rage Room in London?

Before booking your rage room experience, consider these key factors:

Safety: Ensure the venue provides helmets, gloves, and protective suits.
Breakable Items: Some rooms offer electronics, office supplies, and themed items.
Packages: Check for solo, couple, and group session options.
Location: Choose a rage room in London that’s convenient and accessible.
Customer Reviews: Look at past visitors’ experiences to gauge the venue’s quality.
Sustainability: Opt for eco-friendly rage rooms that recycle smashed items.
Themed Destruction Sessions: Some rage rooms offer office meltdown themes or breakup blues packages, making the experience more immersive. After top-rated rage rooms in London for anger therapy, read customer reviews before booking.

Top 10 Rage Rooms in London in 2025 (Ranked by Ratings)

1. Rage Out (⭐ 4.9/5)

Address: 89 Bank Street, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 1SD, UK
Contact: info@rageout.co.uk

Rage Out is known for its high-energy, full-throttle smashing experience. Visitors can use baseball bats, sledgehammers, and crowbars to demolish a variety of objects, including glass bottles, appliances, and furniture.

The venue provides private and group sessions, making it ideal for corporate events and team-building exercises. Rage Out also offers specialized themed destruction sessions, such as “Office Rage” and “Breakup Therapy,” which cater to specific stress-relief needs.

2. Smash It Rage Room (⭐ 4.8/5)

Address: 7-9 The Mound, Coldharbour Estate, London SE9 3BA, UK
Contact: info@smashitragerooms.co.uk

A top-rated rage room in London for anger therapy, Smash It Rage Room provides a well-organized, safe, and exhilarating environment. The venue offers a range of breakable items, from plates and glasses to old office electronics. Customers can personalize their experience by selecting their favorite music playlist while they unleash their frustrations.

3. Urban Xtreme (⭐ 4.8/5)

Address: Temple Bridge, Colne Bank Avenue, Colchester, CO1 1UU, UK
Contact: info@urbanxtreme.co.uk

Urban Xtreme offers more than just smashing—this rage room combines destruction therapy with axe throwing and airsoft. it is the best rage room in London for corporate team-building, it provides a thrilling and high-energy environment suitable for groups looking to let off steam in a unique setting.

4. The Breakdown Palace (⭐ 4.8/5)

Address: Near River Thames, Central London

The Breakdown Palace specializes in unique rage room experiences in London for couples, featuring fun and immersive destruction themes such as “Office Meltdown” and “Breakup Blues.” Perfect for date nights or stress relief after a rough workweek.

5. Smash Room (⭐ 4.7/5)

Address: Unit 9b, Europa Trading Estate, Fraser Road, Erith, DA8 1QL, UK

An eco-friendly smash room with recycled items, Smash Room provides an innovative and sustainable way to relieve stress. Items smashed are repurposed from recycled materials, ensuring an environmentally conscious experience.

6. The Smash Lab (⭐ 4.7/5)

Address: 124 City Rd, London EC1V 2NX, United Kingdom

Contact: info@thesmashlab.co.uk

The Smash Lab is a mobile smash experience that brings destruction therapy to different locations across London. if you’re at a festival, a corporate event, or a private party, they provide everything needed for an exhilarating smash session.

The Smash Lab is perfect for those looking for where to find rage rooms in London in 2025, offering a mix of pop-up experiences with customized breakable items.

Each session is designed to be interactive and unique, making it a fantastic choice for team-building activities, special celebrations, or just a fun way to relieve stress.

7. Smash Space (⭐ 4.7/5)

Address: Camden Town, London, UK

If you love smashing electronics, Smash Space in London is the place to be. This rage room specializes in electronic destruction, letting visitors break outdated gadgets like laptops, TVs, keyboards, and office printers. With protective gear and a variety of tools provided, guests can safely demolish e-waste while enjoying the thrill of destruction.

It’s a perfect choice for those who’ve ever wanted to take out their frustration on malfunctioning tech in a responsible and controlled environment. Plus, they focus on sustainability by recycling the remains, making it an eco-friendly smash room in London.

8. Demolition Den (⭐ 4.6/5)

Address: London Bridge Area, London, UK

Demolition Den offers one of the most intense rage room experiences in London, specializing in large-scale destruction. Here, visitors can go beyond smashing plates and bottles and take on full-sized furniture, old appliances, and industrial materials.

Their themed destruction sessions provide an immersive experience, with rooms designed to simulate real-world stressors like “Corporate Office Chaos” or “Home Renovation Gone Wrong.” This is an excellent choice for those looking for a rage room in London with themed destruction sessions that provide a physical workout while relieving stress.

9. Smash It – New Eltham (⭐ 4.6/5)

Address: New Eltham, London, UK

This rage room is designed for both first-time smashers and experienced destruction enthusiasts.

Smash It – New Eltham offers structured sessions that gradually increase in intensity, starting with small breakable items and moving up to larger objects like old furniture and electronic devices. Their controlled environment ensures safety while still delivering a satisfying smashing experience.

Looking for a casual stress-relief session or an extreme demolition challenge, this venue provides the flexibility to cater to all levels, making it one of the most versatile rage rooms in London.

10. Rage Therapy London (⭐ 4.6/5)

Address: West London, UK

For those seeking a more structured and therapeutic approach to destruction therapy, Rage Therapy London is the ideal option. This rage room provides guided smash sessions that focus on emotional release and mental well-being, allowing participants to break objects in a way that feels cathartic and restorative.

Unlike other rage rooms that emphasize high-energy destruction, Rage Therapy London tailors its experiences to suit individuals who may be looking for a more mindful and controlled stress-relief activity.

This makes it a great choice for those who prefer a balance of rage and relaxation in a safe, supportive environment.

FAQs

Can anyone visit a rage room in London, or are there age restrictions?

Most rage rooms in London have a minimum age requirement, typically 16 or 18 years old, depending on the venue. Some places allow younger participants with parental supervision.

How long does a rage room session last?

The duration of a session varies by package, but most rage rooms offer experiences between 15 to 45 minutes.

Can I book a rage room for a private event or corporate team-building?

Yes! Many rage rooms in London offer private bookings, corporate packages, and even themed destruction nights for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and work events.