Survey on proposed on-street electric vehicle charging points in North Northamptonshire

Residents were given an opportunity to share their views on potential additional locations for on-street electric vehicle charging points in 21 sites across seven towns in North Northamptonshire. 

Resident engagement letters were sent to 1,260 addresses bordering the 21 sites where on-street charging points were proposed. We received 156 responses (150 online and 6 paper surveys). Overall, the feedback received from respondents was positive, with 63% supporting the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. 25% of respondents stated they were considering buying an electric vehicle in the next 0-2 years, with 68% stating they will be buying electric in the next 5 years – reflecting the strong demand for more charging points. Of the 21 sites under consideration, most received an even split of for/against responses, with several sites receiving strong support and 8 sites receiving strong objections due to perceived impact on parking availability. 

The responses to the engagement activity were reviewed by the project team on a site-by-site basis. The detailed drawings for each site, along with on-street images and the site selection criteria were reviewed against the comments received. This was done for all sites, regardless of whether there was overwhelming support, or overwhelming objection, to the installation of on-street charging points at a particular location. The decision-making process weighed up the growing need and demand for on-street charging points for residents without off-road parking, against objections based on a perceived loss of parking space. The project team agreed on which sites to proceed with and, submitted their recommendation for approval. It was recommended that 3 of the 21 sites be removed from our plans based on the objections received as part of the engagement activity. This recommendation was approved.