Durham County Council, in collaboration with Zest, is set to enhance electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure across County Durham. The partnership aims to identify 250 new charging locations, benefiting residents without driveways.
The initiative, supported by a government grant exceeding £4 million from the Local EV Infrastructure (LEVI) scheme, will see Zest investing over £7 million to provide and maintain the charge points and associated services.
Cllr Mark Wilkes, Cabinet member for neighbourhoods and climate change at Durham County Council, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are delighted to be able to expand our EV infrastructure across the county. A better, more accessible network will make it easier for people to drive an electric vehicle.”
Wilkes highlighted the council’s commitment to reducing emissions by 80% over the next three years and achieving net zero by 2045. “We are committed to not only meeting this aim but continuing our work with our partners to look for further opportunities to expand our green infrastructure,” he added.
Robin Heap, CEO and Founder of Zest, emphasized the strategic importance of the collaboration. “The combination of investment from LEVI and Zest enables forward-looking local authorities like Durham to deliver ambitious EV projects for all residents. It should be seen as a blueprint for a more equitable approach to strategic infrastructure,” he said.
Heap noted the project’s alignment with Zest’s strategy to provide convenient charging solutions that integrate seamlessly into daily life. “We look forward to working alongside the Durham team for years to come,” he added.