New EV points aim to drive region forward

A North East transport initiative is expanding access to electric vehicle charging.

A rollout led by the North East Combined Authority will bring 40 new fast-charging electric vehicle spaces to destinations across Newcastle, North Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland. 

Officials say the move aims to boost greener travel, reduce charging inequality and support both local communities and visitors.

They add the initiative is part of a longer-term plan to build a connected, green transport network across the region, with the aim to have the “greenest transport in the country”.

North East mayor Kim McGuinness, said: “I have an electric car, so I know first-hand how important it is to have reliable charging in the right places. 

“I’ve been told time and time again that communities want more charging points and now I’m making that happen.

“We’ve chosen some of our fantastic tourist spots to invest in as we don’t want visitors to our region to be caught short either. 

“The North East will have the greenest transport in the country and this is a vital step towards that.”

Lilian Greenwood MP, minister for the future of roads, added: “Our rapid transition to electric vehicles continues and I am absolutely delighted to hear dozens of new chargepoints will be rolled out across the North East, thanks in part to Government funding. 

“This follows our recent £63 million boost for charging infrastructure, as well as our new electric car grant – offering discounts of up to £3750 per car – to help more people make the switch to electric.

“Not only will this investment lead to greener and smoother journeys across the North East, but it will also help create jobs and grow the economy, a key part of this Government’s plan for change.”

Charging points will be installed at 18 sites, including car parks, coastal areas and leisure centres, with charging speeds of up to 150kW. 

Delivered in partnership with Zest, a B Corp investor-operator in public EV charging, the rollout builds on Zest’s existing 60+ EV spaces in Newcastle and Sunderland, complementing a wider scheme to add 250 more across County Durham.

The project is supported by the Levelling Up Fund, the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme (ORCS) and private investment from Zest.

Robin Heap, chief executive at Zest, added: “We are pleased to partner with the North East Combined Authority on the deployment of EV chargers across Sunderland, Newcastle, North Tyneside and Gateshead. 

“Reliable and convenient charging is essential for people to make the switch to electric, and requires extensive infrastructure strategically located to support everyday journeys.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →