New sites needed for electric vehicle charge points in Dorset

Dorset Council is on a mission to expand the county’s electric vehicle (EV) charging network and is calling on the public to help decide where to install the next batch of chargers.

With the number of electric vehicles on the rise, it is important that Dorset’s communities are equipped to support growing demand from both residents and visitors.  

The council has secured government funding to provide extra charging facilities across the county, to make sure every resident has access to public charging, no matter where they live.  This will be particularly important for homes and flats that don’t have off-street parking or dedicated spots to charge vehicles.

Martinstown, Wool, Maiden Newton, Cerne Abbas, and West Moors are just some of the towns and villages that have already benefitted from the scheme.  And now the council is looking for more sites.

Charge points can be installed on or near the highway, at community spaces like village halls, or on private land such as pub car parks.

Cllr. Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council and Cabinet Member for Climate, said:

“Whether you already drive an electric vehicle, plan to get one in the next few years, or never intend on getting one, electric vehicles are becoming more and more common.  And it’s crucial that we help our communities and county prepare.

“We are committed to helping build a greener, more sustainable future for our county, and an improved charging network will be key to this.”

New locations for charge points can be suggested on the Dorset Council website or by emailing chargingahead@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.