Bedford Borough Council has worked with Connected Kerb to install an initial 260 electric vehicle (EV) charge points across the area.
The new sockets are funded by the Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund, with Connected Kerb installing, maintaining and managing the network on behalf of the council’s highways engineering team.
Through LEVI, Bedford Borough Council will increase its network of EV charging points with an additional proposed 900-plus sockets to meet the growing demand for EV charge points for local residents and visitors to the Borough.
This increased availability of charging facilities will also encourage drivers who are thinking of switching to a greener vehicle, the council added.
Residents who live in areas earmarked for EV installation will be notified in advance by the council.
Cllr Nicola Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment said:
“This is a real step change to make the transition from traditional cars to EVs an easier one. Making use of the LEVI funding is one of the ways we as a Council are helping residents feel confident in making the switch to EVs. Our collaboration with Connected Kerb will ensure that all our communities benefit, both urban and rural.
“Our officers have worked to get this project set up against a challenging background of changing legislation and technical requirements in order to get the funding for this activity, and the contract was finalised and confirmed in early July. We are one of the first tranche of councils in the country to have got this far, so this is a big win for Bedford Borough.
“We know that EVs are a growing part of the car market share – and as they are not producing exhaust emissions, they are better for local air quality and generally better for the environment, making this a great place to visit, work and live in.”
Chris Pateman-Jones, CEO of Connected Kerb added:
“The future of transport isn’t arriving at some point down the road, it’s already here. The challenge now is making sure the infrastructure keeps pace. That’s exactly what this partnership with Bedford Borough Council is doing.
“By expanding access to EV charging across the Borough, we’re helping more residents make the switch to electric with confidence. Bedford is showing real ambition in preparing for the next generation of transport, and we’re proud to be part of that journey.”
Image courtesy of Green Car Guide
