Worcester City Council is taking significant steps to support electric vehicle (EV) owners by offering free overnight parking and charging for residents living within one kilometer of the council’s EV chargers. This move aims to provide options for individuals who cannot charge their vehicles at home. The initiative follows the successful installation of 12 EV charging points at St Martin’s Gate car park.
Residents eligible for the scheme will be granted a residential EV permit, allowing them to park for free between 6 pm and 8 am, specifically for overnight charging purposes. By facilitating convenient access to EV charging, the council hopes to encourage more residents to adopt sustainable transportation options. All charge points within Worcester City Council car parks are powered by renewable energy sources, aligning with the city’s commitment to green initiatives.
It is important to note that standard parking charges will apply outside of the designated overnight time window. However, the availability of free parking during crucial charging hours provides a significant benefit for those who own electric vehicles but lack access to off-street parking.
To ensure that residents are kept up to date, the council plans to send detailed information about the scheme to those residing in the King Street area. The introduction of this initiative aligns with the Worcester City Council’s broader EV Charging Strategy, which aims to enhance the charging infrastructure in the city.
Councillor Zoe Cookson, vice chair of Worcester City Council’s Environment Committee, expressed her enthusiasm for the project. She highlighted the importance of the permit system, emphasizing how it enables residents to charge their vehicles overnight without incurring parking costs. Cookson urges eligible residents to apply for a free EV charging permit at the official Worcester City Council website.
Continuing their commitment to sustainable transportation, Worcester City Council plans to further expand the network of charging points to Tallow Hill car park in the early months of the coming year. By continually enhancing the availability and accessibility of EV charging infrastructure, Worcester aims to facilitate the transition towards a greener and more sustainable future for its residents.
FAQ:
Q: Who is eligible for the residential EV permit?
A: Residents living within one kilometer of any of the council’s EV chargers are eligible for the residential EV permit.
Q: What are the parking hours during which EV owners can park for free?
A: EV owners can park for free between 6 pm and 8 am for overnight charging purposes.
Q: Will regular parking fees apply outside of the designated overnight time window?
A: Yes, at all other times standard parking charges will apply.
Q: How can eligible residents apply for the free EV charging permit?
A: Eligible residents can apply for a free EV charging permit at the Worcester City Council website: www.worcester.gov.uk/evpermit.
Q: Are the charging points powered by green electricity?
A: Yes, all charge points in Worcester City Council car parks are powered by green electricity from renewable sources.