The idea is set to be discussed at BCP Council next Wednesday (July 14) Picture: BCP Council

Cross-pavement EV charging could be launched in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole

Tait ap EllisJuly 11, 20250 Comment0

A NEW cross-pavement electric vehicle charging trial could be introduced across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

This would mean EV users who are unable to park outside their homes would soon be able to thanks to a discreet cable channels embedded into the pavement.

And users would be able to use a cheaper domestic energy supply compared to commercial chargers.

Costs can be as low as 5p per kWh (depending on supplier and tariff) compared to between 44p and 89p per kWh at a public charging station.

BCP Council’s cabinet is set to discuss the idea next Wednesday (July 16), which, if successful, would pave the way for broader implementation across the three towns.

Councillor Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy at BCP Council, said: “Charging gullies could make owning an electric vehicle a more attractive option for residents that do not have off-street parking.

“This is exactly the sort of innovative solution that residents have been asking us to provide and is an important part of our wider EV strategy.

“In addition to making car at-home charging more accessible, we are committed to rolling out more convenient public charging points.

“We currently have 110 charge points across BCP car parks and are looking to create an additional 500 charge points in the next five years; we are keen that these measures do not take space or create trip hazard for pedestrians.”

If approved, residents will be able to apply for the installation of a discreet and unobtrusive charging gully within the pavement alongside a ‘safe socket’ charging point.

The upfront cost to residents who choose to have a gully and charge point installed is partially off-set by a central government grant.

Devon County Council and Suffolk County Council have already announced their own trials following national guidance issued by the government at the end of 2024.