Electric vehicle charging points (EVCPs) are live and ready to use in three Mendip car parks, as installation works are completed.

Three charging points are now available to use in South Street Car Park and Union Street Car Park in Wells and Great Ostry Car Park in Shepton Mallet, which can service a total of 18 electric vehicles between them.

Other Mendip car parks will soon see their EVCPs go live in the coming months. Mendip District Council and partners, EB Charging, are installing 43 22kW Alfen chargers, in 13 council-owned car parks this autumn.

Delivery of the project is an important step towards meeting the Council's climate objectives. By encouraging the use of electric and low emission transport options for residents and visitors, it will reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in Mendip.

Cllr Simon Carswell, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services, said: "It's fantastic to see these plans come to fruition. We promised to deliver electric charging points in our car parks and here they are.

"These charging stations are such an important resource for our towns and city. They will help residents feel confident to make the switch to greener electric vehicles and are a real draw for visitors who can plan their journeys in the area, knowing that there are facilities available.

"These car parks are the first of many in Mendip to have chargers fitted and will contribute to a growing network across the district, making electric vehicles an accessible choice for anyone who is considering them."

Alex Calnan, Managing Director at EB Charging, said: "It's great to see this ambitious project moving forward - huge credit is due to Mendip District Council for their vision and commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality across the region.

"Their commitment chimes with our vision of emission-free towns and cities everywhere, and we are excited about moving to the next stage of the programme."

Work will continue at the remaining 10 designated car parks, with all EVPCs timetabled to be active before the winter.

For more information about the car parks, including a schedule of works, visit: www.mendip.gov.uk/article/10895/Electric-vehicle-EV-charging-points.