Kirklees is set to electrify its landscape with the installation of over 20 new electric vehicle (EV) charging points, following a significant investment of £2.5 million from the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) Fund. This bold initiative, backed by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, aims to bolster the region’s infrastructure for EVs by 2027, bringing the total potential funding to approximately £3.8 million when combined with private investments.
As part of the project rollout, Kirklees Council is expected to approve the funding next week as they strive towards their ambitious goal of becoming net zero and climate-ready by 2038. The deployment will occur in two phases. Initially, the council will utilize £282,000 of the grant to establish EV charging points at 23 predetermined locations starting this summer. Top-priority sites include Spring Wood Street in Huddersfield, New Street Car Park in Honley, and Shaw Cross Community Centre in Dewsbury. Subsequent installations are planned for various areas including Batley, Birstall, Dewsbury, and Holmfirth, among others.
The second phase of the initiative will focus on on-street charging solutions, particularly catering to terraced houses that often face parking constraints. The specifics of these locations are yet to be announced and are expected to be unveiled by 2026/7. Although the installation of charging bays is likely to lead to a decrease in parking revenue from pay-and-display areas, the council anticipates generating income through leasing agreements with charging providers. Income estimates from leasing the charging bays could approximate £27,700 annually, culminating in around £415,500 over a period of 15 years.
The council has clarified that while no immediate charges are planned for parking while vehicles are being charged, there may be future considerations to implement a payment system or parking permits for these bays. As Kirklees embarks on this transformative journey, the community can look forward to enhanced access to electric vehicle charging, aligning with wider sustainability objectives.
