Electric chargers to be installed despite accessibility concerns

Rachael Andrews of Inclusive Norwich says there are "deep concerns" about accessibility issues due to proposed new EV chargers

On-street electrical vehicle (EV) chargers are to go ahead despite "deep concerns" from an inclusivity group about pavements being blocked.

The first of the chargers are due to be installed in Norwich next month.

Rachael Andrews of Inclusive Norwich said the position of the devices "affects everyone who needs to use the pavement".

Norfolk County Council said it delayed the installation while feedback from the public was taken on board.

The first installations are due to begin on 11 December and will see 66 chargers installed at 33 of the 46 locations originally proposed across the city.

'Obstacles'

Ms Andrews said the main concerns of the group were about access for people with physical and sensory disabilities.

She said: "I'm blind, I have a guide dog and when you're talking about things that are installed in the footway, for me, it's a possible obstacle I may meet with my guide dog and not know how to get around.

"If you're a wheelchair user for example, you're talking about a physical obstacle that stops you passing the footway."

Although the charging units are at the kerbside, there are worries it may infringe on the pavement and that charging cables may be coiled or left lying in the pavement.

Feedback was given to the council and Ms Andrews said she recognised the team were trying their best, but said she was unsure the concerns had been considered.

She said: "Our principal concern, when it comes down to it, is of safety and with regards to cables being obstacles preventing people accessing the foot way, or being a safety issue if we don't see it.

"And really it's not just about disabled people in this instance.. so in this situation safety and accessibility of the EV chargers doesn't just affect us, it affects everyone who needs to use the pavement. So we have got some deep concerns."

Pavements were marked up earlier this year for the possible addition of EV chargers

Norfolk County Council (NCC) previously said all proposed sites would allow at least 1m (3.3ft) of footpath for people to use.

Following feedback from a public consultation, the council and contractors Blink delayed the installation and "took on board the comments of the public where possible", the council said. Graham Plant, NCC cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport said: "The feedback we gained from our consultation was invaluable and has allowed us to reassess some of the site designs to ensure we are introducing the right infrastructure to make Norfolk fit for the future and enable people to cut their dependence on motor transport that rely on fossil fuels."It is expected that all EV chargers will be installed by Spring 2024.