READING Borough Council has laid out plans for a “comprehensive charging structure” set to be discussed at a planning meeting next week.
It comes as part of the council’s larger Local Transport Plan, through which it aims to cut carbon emissions, encourage the use of public transport, and improve public health through active travel and improved air quality.
The Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure strategy will see the council working as part of a joint initiative with other local authorities to create charging facilities across the borough.
It includes plans for charging points in council car parks, park and ride facilities, and places such as petrol stations.
There are further plans to encourage the adoption of low or zero emission vehicles, phasing out diesel, and the implementation of a borough-wide Smoke Control Area.
The plan follows a public consultation carried out last year, where residents and community organisations were invited to share their views.
In that consultation, the council says that of the 217 responses received, a majority were in favour of proposals, with many putting forward their own suggestions.
The plan is now due to be discussed and recommended for approval at the Strategic Environment, Planning and Transport committee on Wednesday 13 March.
Cllr John Ennis, Lead Councillor for Climate Strategy and Transport, said:
“There have been considerable improvements in Reading’s air quality in recent years but there are still areas where levels of pollution are too high.
“An estimated 20% of all carbon emissions in the borough are the result of vehicle use so the Council is focussing on making public transport more attractive and improving the infrastructure to encourage cycling and walking.
“While electric vehicles still produce particulates and do not reduce traffic congestion, we recognise car journeys are still sometimes necessary and that electric vehicles will play an important role in reducing emissions and improving air quality in the future.
“Both the Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Strategy and Air Quality Action Plan plug into the Local Transport Plan which, combined, will play a vital role in our aim for Reading to be net zero carbon by 2030.”
