South Gloucestershire Council has committed to making it easier for people to make the switch to an electric vehicle (EV).
The council has adopted a new EV Charging Strategy which aims to install more charge points across the area by working with communities to improve access for people with EVs, or those considering an EV for their next car.
The new strategy looks to complement the growth in EV charging provision in the private sector by filling the gaps, especially in more rural communities. The council wants to ensure that most households in South Gloucestershire are within one mile of an EV charge point.
As part of the Climate Emergency the council has pledged to lead South Gloucestershire to become carbon neutral by 2030. Making it easier and more attractive for people to switch to an EV will help achieve this target.
Last year the council installed new charge points in Marshfield and at the Kingswood Civic Centre.
Funding applications have already been made so more charge points can be installed across South Gloucestershire. New locations will be announced when funding is secured, 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.”
South Gloucestershire Council recently agreed a budget which included significant investment in sustainable travel. As part of its 2023/24 budget the authority approved £1.5 million investment in improving walking and cycling routes, £132 million on capital projects and transport schemes and a further £1.5 million on progressing the council’s response to the climate emergency.
To learn more about the EV Charging Strategy, visit www.southglos.gov.uk/electric-vehicle-charging
