Agenda item

To consider the report of the Deputy Chief Executive, (copy enclosed).

The Council considered the report of the Deputy Chief Executive seeking Members’ approval of the Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging and Low Emissions Strategy (the Strategy), attached as Appendix 1 to the report.

The Chairperson drew Members’ attention to an addendum, circulated prior to the meeting, which advised of an amendment to page 8 of the Strategy (page 149 of the report pack).

The report highlighted background information regarding the Council’s commitment to achieve Net Zero emissions from its assets and services and achieving a carbon-neutral District by 2050. It was noted that the District had a limited number of public EV charge points, the projections for increased EV ownership by 2040 and the related expansion of the EV charging infrastructure across the District were set out in the report.

The Strategy provided a clear framework for expanding EV infrastructure and transitioning the Council fleet to support the Net Zero 2050 commitment. The Assistant Director - Place and Community, in her presentation of the report, highlighted the key elements of the Strategy, noting the proposed phased transition for the Council’s fleet and the ongoing collaboration with Essex County Council, private sector partners and local stakeholders. It was noted that the Strategy would also improve air quality, enhance transport sustainability, whilst ensuring the District remained resilient, accessible and forward-thinking in its approach to low-emissions mobility.

The Chairperson put the recommendations as set out in the report.

Councillor R H Siddall proposed an amendment to recommendation (ii) to include the Chairperson of the Strategy and Resources Committee and the Chairperson of the Net Zero Working Group. This was duly seconded and the amendment agreed.

In response to a question regarding an attempt by Essex County Council (ECC) to put EV charging points on the Hythe quay which had been rescinded, the Leader advised that he would ensure all Members were informed of any communication to install such points in the future.

Councillor A S Fluker referred to the EV charging points outside of the Council offices which people were not currently charged to use. He proposed an additional recommendation, that Officers consider an upgrade of the EV charging machines to make sure that users had to pay for the electric and that it was fair and reasonable. This proposal was duly seconded and agreed as an amendment to the recommendations.

In response to earlier reference to work the Council was undertaking with ECC in relation to the EV Infrastructure Fund, Councillor M F L Durham advised that initially ECC had identified five rural locations within the Maldon District (Great Totham, Tolleshunt D’Arcy, Tollesbury, Latchingdon and Tillingham) and wanted to ensure there was no duplication of work. Councillor J C Stilts reported that herself along with Councillors A M Lay and S J N Morgan had met with ECC to discuss EV charging, the EV Infrastructure Fund to and the Hythe quay.

In response to a question requesting that Officers speak to ECC regarding focusing on Southminster and Burnham-on-Crouch within the Dengie peninsular, the Technical Lead – Climate Action advised that ECC had confirmed they wished to engage with Parish and Town Councils, look at sites in rural locations and were keen not to leave any part of the District behind. The Council would ensure this was pursued and that Members were kept informed.

The Chairperson moved the amended recommendations, and these were duly agreed. The Chairperson thanked the Technical Officer – Climate Action for her detailed report.

RESOLVED

(i)             that subject to the additional paragraph detailed in the addendum to the report, the Electric Vehicle Charging and Low Emissions Strategy 2025-2028 be approved as a starting point for future action and investment in Electric Vehicle infrastructure and fleet optimisation, enabling transition across the district;

(ii)            that in consultation with the Leader of the Council, Officers are authorised to commence implementation, subject to funding availability and Council priorities;

(iii)           that Officers consider an upgrade to the EV charging machines at the Maldon District Council Officers to make sure that users had to pay for the electric and that it was fair and reasonable.