Find a charging point in our area and tell us if we need more
To find the location of charge points in Central Bedfordshire and nationally, visit Zap Map.
This also contains information on the types of charge point available, their availability and any feedback from users. Charge point coverage is increasing as they are installed at local facilities, such as; supermarkets, service stations and businesses.
Our charging points
We are working with BP Pulse to install charge points at suitable locations and have submitted a bid to the government for grant funding toward the provision of fast chargers to create local charging hubs. We will be able to update you on this in due course.
As part of our contract with BP Pulse, we are also seeking to update and replace all our existing charge points in our public car parks and at our key buildings. This will improve the quality and reliability of the network in the area.
BP Pulse will also be installing rapid charge points in suitable locations where there is sufficient demand.
Where do we need charge points?
We receive lots of requests and queries about electric vehicles and charging points. To help us build evidence and understand where the demand is, we need to hear from you.
Tell us if you need to charge your vehicle
Please note that submitting a request does not guarantee the installation of a charge point at the suggested location. Due to constraints such as the ability to connect to the grid, available electrical capacity, cost, and expected usage, not all locations are suitable for charge point provision.
If you have a question about electric vehicles or charging, please contact us at begreen@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk.
Charging at home
Currently, you are only able to install a domestic charge point at your home if you have dedicated off-street parking within the curtilage of the property and you own the area where the car is parked.
This would need to be installed at your expense. There are electric vehicle charging grants available, although the scope of these is narrower for homeowners from 2022 with a greater focus on those in rental properties and flats.
The government provides a list of approved installers who will be able to advise further. There are also instances where limitations to permitted development rights apply. You can request pre-application advice if formal planning approval is required.
Around 25% of the UK’s population does not have dedicated off-street parking and we are aware that electric vehicle ownership and home charging are a challenge for these residents. We're awaiting advice from the government on how this situation can be addressed. In the meantime, we're looking at opportunities to make this easier for residents and roll out charge points in local charging hubs.
One of these opportunities is our pilot scheme featuring the Gul-e cable channel. We do not support the trailing of cables across the footway or public highway due to the safety risk this presents. You would be liable for any criminal or civil proceedings if your cable causes an accident.
There are websites and apps available, such as JustPark and Co Charger, that aim to bridge the gap for those who cannot charge at home. These platforms enable people with EV chargers at home to share them with neighbours and other local residents.
If you rent
If you rent your property, you should discuss this with the property owner.
If you live in a flat
If you live in a flat or apartment, you will need to discuss this with the freeholder. The parking space will need to be close to a power source and you will need to consider how the space will be managed if it is not reserved for your flat.
Building regulations
The Building Regulations were updated in June 2022 and now require all new-build and retrofit homes and commercial buildings in England to be installed with electric vehicle charging points.
Charging at work
It is the responsibility of the owner of the workplace car park to install charge points. The government offers grant funding through the Workplace Charging Scheme to help eligible businesses, charities and public sector organisations to install charge points at their premises.