South Gloucestershire Council has committed to a new EV Charging Strategy which aims to install more charge points across the area.
The local authority said it would work with communities to improve access for people with EVs or those considering an EV for their next car. It will ensure most households are within one mile of a charge point and aims to complement the growth in EV charging provision in the private sector by filling the gaps – especially in more rural communities, it said.
South Gloucestershire has also pledged to become carbon neutral by 2030 and is aiming for residents switching to an EV will help achieve this target.
Last year the council installed new charge points in Marshfield and at the Kingswood Civic Centre and funding applications have already been made for more charge points. New locations will be announced when funding is secured, it said, followed by a period of engagement with local communities.
Councillor Steve Reade, cabinet member with responsibility for transport at South Gloucestershire Council, said: “We have made a commitment to make South Gloucestershire carbon neutral by 2030. To achieve it we need to provide a variety of ways for people living and working in the area to get around.
“We know that some journeys will still need to be made car, which is why we have created this new EV Charging Strategy for South Gloucestershire. The strategy encourages a cohesive approach with communities being involved to help support an increase in the number of charging points available.
“We want to support all those who want to make the switch to an electric vehicle, regardless of where they live, in our villages or in our towns. By improving and increasing the charging network we are making owning an electric vehicle a more realistic option.
“I encourage Parish and Town Councils to continue to let us know where they have land that may be suitable for locating EV charging points. This won’t guarantee an immediate installation but will keep us informed.”
Image from South Gloucestershire Council
