UK government removes planning permission for cross-pavement EV chargers

The UK government has announced a reduction in red tape for electric vehicle (EV) owners by removing the requirement for planning permission to install cross-pavement chargers. This change is intended to help motorists without off-street parking access cheaper domestic electricity rates, which can cost significantly less than public charging points.

Estimates suggest the removal of these requirements could save drivers up to £300 per installation. While planning permission is no longer required, motorists must still obtain authorization from their local council to install the necessary charging gulley, which must be designed to avoid interfering with existing gas, electricity, water, or telecommunications infrastructure.

In addition to the rule change, the government has launched two consultations aimed at making home charging easier and ensuring new buildings are equipped with chargers. Officials are also considering mandatory requirements for landlords and freeholders to prevent them from refusing installation requests from renters.