The UK government has unveiled a significant change to driveway law, removing the need for planning applications for EV charging point installations. This move aims to cut red tape and accelerate the country’s electric vehicle revolution
In a significant move set to accelerate the UK’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs), the government has announced a major change to driveway law, removing the need for planning applications for the installation of EV charging points.
Surging the UK’s electric vehicle transition
The reform, heralded by Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood, is expected to benefit thousands of homes and businesses across the country, cutting red tape and making EV ownership more accessible and affordable.
Under the new regulations, both private homeowners and businesses will no longer be required to submit a planning application to install EV sockets, whether for personal use or public access. This streamlined process aims to reduce both the time and cost associated with charger installation, potentially unlocking savings of up to £1,100 a year for EV owners compared to running a petrol or diesel car.
Minister Greenwood emphasised the government’s commitment to the “EV revolution,” stating, “We’re cutting down on paperwork to power up the EV revolution, so that drivers, businesses and those looking to make the switch will have more chargepoints to power from, and less red tape to deal with.” The changes are not limited to residential driveways but also apply to workplace and public chargepoints, paving the way for a faster and more widespread rollout of charging infrastructure.
Industry leaders have largely welcomed the announcement. Vicky Edmonds, Chief Executive of EVA England, lauded the move as “essential to helping more drivers switch to electric.” However, she cautioned that “further action is needed” to address the challenges faced by “drivers without driveways [who] still face barriers to affordable, convenient charging.” Edmonds urged the government to bolster support for cross-pavement charging solutions and extend legal rights to tenants and leaseholders, ensuring equitable access to cheaper and more convenient charging for all.
Accelerating EV charging point installations
Jack Cousens, Head of Roads Policy for The AA, echoed the sentiment, believing that “removing the planning rules” will undoubtedly “accelerate installations.” He highlighted the critical importance of timely grid connection, particularly in rural areas and locations lacking dedicated off-street parking, as a crucial next step.
Rocio Concha, Director of Policy and Advocacy at consumer group Which?, also expressed support, calling the change “an important step in the right direction.” The collective positive reception from motoring and consumer advocacy groups underscores the perceived importance of this regulatory shift in fostering a more accessible and efficient EV charging network.
The government’s decision marks a clear signal of intent to remove bureaucratic hurdles and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles across the UK.
