Plans to install 17,000 electric vehicle charging points across a rural English county by 2026 were announced today, marking one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the UK’s net-zero drive. The scheme, led by the county council, will prioritize high-traffic areas, tourist hotspots, and underserved rural communities, ensuring no driver is more than 10 minutes from a charger.
Council leader Sarah Whitmore confirmed the project will receive £4.2 million in government funding, with additional contributions from private investors. "This isn’t just about keeping up with the times—it’s about leading the charge," Whitmore said. "We’re ensuring our county is ready for the EV revolution while supporting local businesses to install and maintain the infrastructure."
💡 Pro Tip
Check the council’s upcoming interactive map to see where chargers will be installed first—prioritizing areas with the longest current wait times.
The first phase begins next month, with 2,000 chargers set for installation in supermarket car parks, motorway service stations, and village halls. The remaining 15,000 will roll out in stages, with completion slated for late 2026. The council has partnered with ChargeUK, a leading EV infrastructure provider, to oversee the project.
| Installation Location | Number of Chargers | Priority Level |
|---|---|---|
| Supermarket car parks | 4,500 | High |
| Motorway service stations | 3,200 | High |
| Village halls | 2,100 | Medium |
| Public parking lots | 5,200 | Low |
| Residential streets | 2,000 | Low |
Critics warn the project may face delays due to supply chain issues for charging hardware, but Whitmore dismissed concerns. "We’ve secured contracts with three major manufacturers and have contingency plans for every scenario," she said. "This is happening—no ifs, no buts."
Key Points
- ✅ 17,000 chargers will be installed across the county by 2026
- ⚡ Wait times will drop from 45 minutes to under 10 minutes
- 💡 Funding includes £4.2 million from the government and private investors
Environmental groups have praised the initiative, calling it a "game-changer" for rural EV adoption. "This level of infrastructure will remove the last barrier for many drivers considering an electric vehicle," said Greenpeace UK’s transport campaigner, Tom Brake. "It’s a blueprint for other counties to follow."
📋 By The Numbers
- 17,000 — Total chargers to be installed
- £4.2 million — Government funding allocated
- 45 minutes — Current average wait time (pre-project)
- 2026 — Project completion deadline
