Thirteen Midlands local councils, who joined forces to form two partnerships, submitted an application to the Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Funding in conjunction with the sub-national transport body, Midlands Connect.
As a result, the partnerships will receive an allocation of £39.3 million. Each local authority will receive an individual portion of this fund.
“We are delighted that the Government has allocated over £39.3 million to 13 councils in the Midlands. This will significantly propel the region forward,” stated Maria Machancoses, CEO of Midlands Connect.
The Second Midlands Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Consortium, led by Nottinghamshire County Council in partnership with Derby City Council, Derbyshire County Council, Nottingham City Council, and Staffordshire County Council.
The Third Midlands Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Consortium, led by Lincolnshire County Council in partnership with Herefordshire County Council, Leicestershire County Council, Rutland County Council, Shropshire Council, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Telford and Wrekin Council, and Warwickshire County Council.
“This marks a crucial next step in our efforts to enhance electric vehicle charging infrastructure across the region ahead of the gradual phase-out of new diesel and petrol car and van sales by 2030,” commented Machancoses.
“This funding will improve the lives of those residing in the Midlands, particularly those without off-street parking access who may otherwise face challenges in charging their vehicles,” she added.
An analysis has determined that the region will require 17,461 new public EV charging points by the end of 2025 to meet the growing EV market’s demands.
It is hoped that this latest positive news regarding government funding will encourage increased installation of charging stations throughout the region.
Estimates suggest that the installation and maintenance of electric vehicle charging points will also lead to a surge in job opportunities within the region.
Over 42,000 related positions are projected to be created in the Midlands by the end of 2032.
It is worth noting that in 2022, Midlands Connect, in collaboration with five councils, secured £1 million in funding through the LEVI Fund Pilot, and this funding is expected to attract an additional £2.8 million in private sector investment to deploy 322 standard and 27 rapid EV charging points.
These charging points are expected to be installed as part of this project in the summer of 2024.
