New Forest helps lead the way with electric car charge points

THE New Forest is among the areas leading the way for electric car charge-points, latest figures show.

The district has 53 individual facilities open for public use – putting it in the top 20% across the UK, according to numbers published by the Department for Transport.

The New Forest holds the same position for devices per 100,000 head of population – but is in the bottom 40% when it comes to rapid-charge devices rated at 43kW or higher.

As reported in the A&T, the district council is planning to install three free-to-use connections as a pilot scheme at its parking area in Fordingbridge.

The neighbouring area of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council was also in the top fifth with 58 devices.

But it was also in the bottom 40% both for number per head of population and the amount of rapid-charge devices.

Announcing extra council funding to help boost the figures, transport secretary Grant Shapps said: "Your postcode should play no part in how easy it is to use an electric car, and I’m determined electric vehicles become the new normal for drivers.

"It’s good news there are now more charging locations than petrol stations, but the clear gaps in provision are disappointing.

“I urge local councils to take advantage of all the government support on offer to help ensure drivers in their area don’t miss out.”

There are now more than 22,500 public charge points and at least one rapid-charge point at more than 95% of motorway services areas.