Council workers have begun installing new electric vehicle (EV) charge points on Lyefield Road East in Charlton Kings, Cheltenham, sparking anger among local residents who feel their objections were ignored.
The project will convert four parking spaces exclusively for EV use—a change many residents say was pushed through without sufficient community involvement. Stephen Williams, a nearby resident, criticized the move as undemocratic, pointing out that most households own diesel or petrol vehicles and that those with electric cars already have personal charging facilities.
“We had very little comeback from our Liberal Democrat county councillor,” Williams added. “We’re banging our heads against a wall. This is a busy road near an infant school, often used as a rat run, and the changes complicate matters.”
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Mary Wilson expressed similar concerns, describing the road as “very busy” and calling the siting of the EV charge points inappropriate given the proximity to a school. She also lamented the lack of communication, sharing how an automated response to her emails went unanswered.
Graham Wilson highlighted residents’ ongoing attempts to raise their concerns since February last year, including reaching out to local councillors and the Member of Parliament, all without meaningful response. He stressed the absence of proper notification and demanded a well-publicized meeting to discuss the matter.
In response, Roger Whyborn, cabinet member for sustainable transport and strategic highways, acknowledged residents’ worries but defended the initiative. He explained that the council’s EV charging strategy targets streets without off-street parking where residents cannot install personal chargers.
“While these streets often have high parking demand, they are where public chargers are most needed," Whyborn said. “About a quarter of new cars are now electric, and councils must act promptly to provide the necessary infrastructure.”
Whyborn confirmed that residents and local councillors were consulted in the previous year and that the initial plan for four charge points was reduced to two after feedback. Alternative sites were considered but rejected for cost and safety reasons.
He further noted ongoing efforts to work with Charlton Kings Primary School to promote walking and scooting to ease traffic concerns. Usage and community feedback will be monitored post-installation.
“Though we understand not everyone agrees with the decision, all proper procedures have been followed,” Whyborn concluded.