West Northants Council to roll out one of UK's biggest on-street electric vehicle charging networks
More than 3,000 on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging sockets are set to be installed across West Northamptonshire as part of one of the UK's largest local charging programmes.
West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has appointed charging company Char.gy to deliver the rollout, which is being funded through the Government's Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund alongside private investment.
The programme aims to make charging more accessible for residents who rely on on-street parking and do not have the option of installing a charger at home.
Many of the new charge points will be fitted to existing lamp columns owned by the council and parish councils, reducing disruption and keeping installation costs down.
The locations have been chosen using an evidence-based process, prioritising streets where residents do not have off-street parking, as well as locations suggested by local people. WNC said it has also been working with parish councils to identify suitable sites.
The installation programme is due to begin later this year.
Councillor Nigel Stansfield, WNC's cabinet member for environment, recycling and waste, said: "This is a transformative investment in our area's future. By delivering thousands of accessible, convenient and fairly priced on-street charging points, we are making it easier for residents to choose cleaner travel and invest in electric vehicles if they choose to.
"Working with Char.gy allows us to scale up quickly using existing infrastructure and ensure our communities are well-prepared for the increasing demand for electric vehicles."
The scheme is backed by £2.85 million of government funding.
Aviation, maritime and decarbonisation minister Keir Mather said: "Drivers in West Northamptonshire will soon have thousands more reasons to go electric, with over 3,000 new public charge points rolling out.
"We know charging availability is one of the biggest barriers to switching, which is why we're tackling it head on."
Residents will receive updates on installation timescales, charging locations and how to use the new charge points through the council's website and social media channels.