Saffron Walden Electric Car Users Plug Into Charger

4 September 2014, 06:00

Drivers of electric cars can now re-charge their vehicles in Saffron Walden

It's after Uttlesford District Council have switch on a rapid electric vehicle charger near the town centre at the Lord Butler Fitness and Leisure Centre car park - today (Wednesday 3 September).

As it is a rapid charger, rather than trickles charger (which owners would use at home), cars can be re-charged in 20-30 minutes, making journeys easier and it is hoped may encourage more residents to consider buying an electric car.

Cllr Susan Barker, Uttlesford District Council's cabinet member for Environmental Services, said: "Local councils, in their role as community leaders, need to be proactive in developing the necessary infrastructure to encourage the public to use electric or electric hybrid vehicles.

This partnership funded project has enabled Uttlesford District Council to support green transport in our district by offering this new facility at the Lord Butler Fitness and Leisure Centre in Saffron Walden."

Cllr Ray Howard, Deputy Cabinet Member for Highways & Transportation, said: "The implementation of the Essex Rapid Charger Network shows the County Council can work productively with national government to get extra funding to spend on innovative schemes like this, in partnership with the district councils and private companies to the benefit of Essex."

Electric vehicle owners can use a phone app or access card to charge their vehicles. A flat rate of £5 for charging the vehicle is applied to cover the costs of administration fees, maintenance and electricity used. The charger has three cable sockets to enable three different types of electric car brands to use it.

The location of the charger is advertised both on the ChargeYourCar website and the national car charging database National Points Register. Uttlesford District Council will also shortly publicise it on its website.