Tom Hayes MP calls on Government to boost EV charging for all Bournemouth East residents

Tom Hayes MP has called on the Government to ensure electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in Bournemouth keeps pace with rising demand.

Speaking in the House of Commons, the Bournemouth East MP raised concerns about the lack of on-street charging, particularly for residents without driveways.

“My constituents in Bournemouth East are crying out for charging infrastructure,” said Mr Hayes.

He added, “If we’re serious about giving people access to cleaner, cheaper travel, we need infrastructure that works for everyone.”

The Secretary of State responded by pledging to pay attention to Bournemouth as part of a national approach that combines public and private investment.

BCP Council’s EV strategy currently excludes on-street charging infrastructure because of concerns about pavement obstructions.

This has made it harder for residents in areas like Boscombe and Charminster to charge EVs near their homes.

Public chargers installed so far mainly serve visitors and through traffic, and many residents say costs remain too high for regular use.

BCP has 1,012 plug-in vehicles per 100,000 people, according to its EV strategy consultation. The same consultation found that 32% of EV users did not have a charging point at home.

Tom Hayes previously helped secure investment in lamppost chargers, pavement cable gullies, and car park chargers during his time as a councillor.


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