EV drivers no longer need planning permission for cross-pavement chargers
The government says the change saves drivers up to £300, though council authorisation is still required to install a charging gulley.
Electric vehicle drivers will no longer have to apply for planning permission to install cross-pavement chargers, under revised rules announced by the government.
The government said it is cutting red tape for the installations. It said the system lets drivers without off-street parking use domestic electricity rates, which can often be a fraction of the cost of a public charger.
A cross-pavement charger uses a gulley so drivers can charge their cars without creating a trip hazard for pedestrians. Anyone who wants one installed will still need authorisation from their local council.
Simon Lightwood, Buses and Local Transport Minister, said: "We're saving drivers up to £300 off the cost of installing home charging by cutting unnecessary red tape." He said EV sales are up 36% on last year.
The government has also launched two consultations aimed at making home charging easier and making sure new buildings come with chargers. It said it is considering mandatory requirements for landlords and freeholders that would make it harder for them to refuse requests from renters to install a charge point.
Simon Williams, head of policy at the RAC, called the change "a much-needed step in the right direction to make charging fairer and accessible for all." He said public charging points remain subject to 20% VAT, while home electricity rates currently carry zero tax.
