A proposed electric vehicle (EV) charging zone in the car park of Newport’s Morrisons supermarket has been approved.
Justifying the decision, the Isle of Wight Council raised the UK government’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 28 per cent by 2035.
In an officer report, the council said it is thought to be “essential” that a “comprehensive and competitive” EV charging network is installed.
“As part of the Net Zero strategy (October 2021), the UK central government has placed a new emphasis on electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the UK.”
Flagging strategic policy seven of the council’s Core Strategy, the report said:
“Policy SP7 of the ICS requires that Council support proposals that increase travel choice, provide alternative means of travel to the car and help reduce the impact on air quality and climate change.
“As such, it is considered that the principle of the electric vehicle charging points, bays and related equipment is acceptable.”
Losing 13 parking spaces at the supermarket was not seen to be an issue because the proposal would install six charging spaces, a change that would fit with the UK’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
The council said:
“Paragraph 116 of the NPPF states that applications for development should be designed to enable charging of plug-in and other ultra-low emission vehicles in safe, accessible and convenient locations.
“There are approximately 330 parking spaces available for all users and approximately 17 spaces for blue badge holders.
"The council said the proposed charging zone would “blend in” with the car park without being “overly prominent”.
Considering its effect on neighbouring properties, the paper noted there would be no detrimental noise impact caused by use of the charging zone’s substation and LV panel.
Though chargers would be available 24 hours a day and seven days a week, it is thought their use would not cause problems for neighbours.
Conditions attached to the council’s approval include that development is started within three years of permission being granted, submitted plans are adhered to, and the charging zone is used only in relation to the supermarket.
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