Trafford Labour councillors are leading the way in terms of delivering the most ultra-fast Electric Vehicle Charging Points (EVCP) when compared to other Greater Manchester boroughs.

A report on the council’s vision to expand its EV network was tabled during a meeting of the authority’s latest Scrutiny Committee, which is chaired by Cllr Fianna Hornby.

In Trafford, there are a mix of 54 privately and publicly owned charging locations providing 218 charging points which include 89 ultra, 49 rapid, 29 fast and 51 slower options.

Trafford Council has been working with Manchester’s electric vehicle charging network, BE.EV since 2022, to devise an EV charging strategy that would support the needs of the entire borough.

Currently, BE.EV charging hubs are in car parks at Longford Park, James Street, Greenbank Road, Trafford Town Hall, Balmoral Road, Flixton Road, Cecil Road, Golden Hill, and Sale Water Park.

However, the demand for more accessible street charging solutions will increase significantly over the next 5 years.

It has been estimated that a total of 900 chargers will be required by 2030. To meet this demand, Trafford Council are looking for innovative new methods, with consideration being given to house some on street lighting columns.

Cllr Hornby, who represents Gorse Hill and Cornbrook ward, welcomed the report and praised the authority’s EV expansion plans and commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2038.

“The fact we are leading the charge on delivering the most ultra-fast EVs in Greater Manchester is fantastic,” she said.

“This will help our residents on their journey to electrification, ready for the government target of 100pc of new cars and vans to be electric by 2035.

“It’s also evidence of how our Labour councillors and administration are totally committed to addressing the climate crisis.

“It’s so important we deliver on our pledge to reduce the borough’s carbon footprint and provide the infrastructure so that people can make the switch to environmentally friendly alternatives.

“It was fascinating to receive an update on our proposals to offer car owners cleaner and greener ways to fuel their vehicles. I look forward to seeing what Trafford Council achieve in the future.”

The report also sates the authority could possibly seek external funding via the government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund and City Region Sustainable Transport Settlements (CRSTS) to support the delivery of more chargers.

If a LEVI funding bid was successful it has the potential to provide 310 basic chargers or 120 of the faster options.

To read the full report click here.