Proposals to develop a new solar-powered electric vehicle charging hub in Lancaster have reached the next phase.
Lancaster City Council has put forward a planning application to create what they have described as "a more accessible, affordable, and convenient way for people to charge EVs (Electric Vehicles)".
Subject to securing planning permission, the proposals would create a new type of energy hub in Lancaster city centre, accommodating eight charging bays.
Under the plans, a solar canopy at the Auction Mart Car Park on Thurnham Street, Lancaster, would generate clean electricity on site, which would then either power the charge points directly, be stored for use later in the day, or exported to the National Grid if not required on site.
Alongside rapid charging, taxi drivers and residents would benefit from discounted tariffs as well as extra savings when surplus renewable energy is generated.
The council said that designed with public safety in mind, the hub would also feature solar-powered lighting, a location near busy pedestrian areas to address a common concern with some EV charging sites, and wide bays to support accessible parking.
“Currently, 45 per cent of households in the district do not have access to off-street parking, which means many residents cannot install a charger at home," said Councillor Sam Riches, cabinet member with responsibility for climate action.
"This makes the switch to an electric vehicle more difficult and expensive.
“This ambitious plan aims to resolve this issue by empowering more residents to switch to electric vehicles with confidence, knowing they have access to dependable, and cost-effective charging.
“While supporting our commitment to generate more sustainable energy and increase energy resilience, the project will also help improve air quality across the district.”
Subject to planning approval, construction is expected to commence later this year, with the hub due to become operational during 2027.
Funding has come from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and DEFRA Air Quality Grant.
To view the planning proposal, visit HERE.
Man accused of stealing joints of meat at Lancaster Asda by hiding them in his trousers
LISTEN and PHOTOS: Spectacular display of 12,000 poppies unveiled at Lancaster landmark
Eden Project Morecambe boss gives update on early stages of work on new £100m attraction
Lancaster, Morecambe and Carnforth Remembrance services announced
Road closures for pre-Tour de France work announced for Lancaster district
Lancaster rock guitarist braves beard shave for charity
Two arrests made after post office robbery in Lancaster
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra to perform concert for schools at Morecambe Winter Gardens
PHOTOS: Plans go in for major Lancaster regeneration scheme
Lancaster music venue's heartfelt message ahead of final night on New Year's Eve
Morecambe school named among one of England's most improved for attendance
Lancaster hospital nursing boss appointed to University of Cumbria honorary role
Morecambe Football Club placed under another embargo by the National League
£1.5m Lancaster scheme to boost water quality in River Lune is complete
Family pays tribute to Lancaster pensioner who died in road crash
Popular artist's print of Morecambe Bay Academy to be launched at alumni evening
Work set to begin on new Heysham skate park
Light Up Lancaster promises to illuminate city with ‘No Boundaries’
Sadness as Morecambe sports and social club suffers break-in on night of reopening
Man arrested after death of pensioner in Lancaster road crash
