NEW electric car charging points are now in service in Herefordshire.

The charge points, funded by Highways England and installed by SWARCO, who will run the points, are in Herefordshire Council car parks at Edde Cross Street car park in Ross-on-Wye, St Martin’s car park in Hereford and Broad Street car park in Leominster.

These are the first rapid charge points to be installed in public car parks in Herefordshire. They are able to charge most electric vehicles within 30 minutes.

These charging points supplement the existing 12 electric vehicle charging points in 11 locations across the county.

To support the use of energy efficient and low emission vehicles, drivers of electric or hybrid vehicles that need to plug in and charge can get a free 30-minute parking ticket to display in their vehicle at council-owned, off-street car parks.

Cllr Ellie Chowns, cabinet member for environment, economy and skills, said: “We are delighted to have worked with SWARCO and Highways England to deliver three new charge points for electric vehicles in our car parks.

"Herefordshire Council is committed to tackling the climate and ecological emergency, and we aim to do everything that we can to encourage greater use of low emission vehicles, alongside promoting more active travel for local journeys, such as walking or cycling.”

Justin Meyer, general manager at SWARCO eVolt, said: “We are pleased to support Herefordshire Council and its plans to increase EV uptake and reduce harmful emissions with our proven and reliable charging solutions.

"These additional rapid charge points will provide more places for drivers to top up in key locations.”

Highways England project sponsor Brian Cull said: “We’re pleased to be working with councils across the country to increase the provision for drivers making the switch to electric vehicles.

“Over 95 per cent of England’s motorways and major A-roads are now within 20 miles of an electric vehicle charging point.

“The charging points will make it easier for drivers to keep their vehicle’s power topped up and help them make longer, cleaner journeys.

“Elsewhere in the Midlands, we’ve already funded 14 charging points, including chargers in Ludlow, Church Stretton and Rugby.

"This is another example of how we’re using dedicated funding to benefit the environment and communities alongside our roads, as well as the people travelling and working on them.”

For more information on electric vehicle charge points in the county please visit the Herefordshire Council website.