B5.9.8 Integrating electric vehicles

Where on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging is proposed, a minimum 2 metre clear footway must be maintained at all times to ensure safe passage for wheelchair users, mobility scooters, people with limited vision, and pushchairs. Surface trailing cables across the footway are not permitted. The integration of charging points into existing infrastructure is encouraged (such as lamp column chargers or purpose-designed charging bollards). Where cables are required to cross the footway, they must be accommodated in a flush, covered gully or in-ground channel to prevent trip hazards. Charging units may be located on build-outs (kerb extensions) or within parking bays but must be set back at least 0.5 metres from the kerb edge to avoid obstructing vehicle doors or the carriageway.

EV charging units should be integrated into the design of the dwelling or parking area to minimise visual impact. For example, by aligning with green infrastructure and street furniture. They should not be located on key corners along the street or public realm.

Electric Vehicle Charging Points (EVCPs) should be integrated into visitor parking spaces  to increase accessibility to charging infrastructure for all users. This could be achieved by:

• installing EVCPs within on-street visitor bays using discreet lamp column chargers or purpose-designed charging bollards

• locating visitor EVCPs within clearly marked spaces in parking courts or communal bays, with ducting and power feeds concealed underground

• using build-outs (kerb extensions) to accommodate EVCPs alongside visitor bays, ensuring a clear footway of at least 2 metres is maintained

• positioning visitor EVCPs where they are naturally overlooked, well-lit, and easy to supervise to discourage misuse or vandalism

All visitor EVCPs should be clearly signed and accessible for all users.