Ryedale District Council in North Yorkshire is deploying 10 rapid charge points in partnership with EV charging infrastructure specialist Zest.

The new charge points will be provided, operated and maintained by Zest on behalf of Ryedale District Council

The chargers will be fitted in car parks at towns across the district, including Malton, Pickering, Helmsley and Norton-on-Derwent, after the district council secured investment from Zest for the rollout. Work will start on installation in the new year and the charge points will be provided, operated and maintained by Zest, removing costs and operational overheads for the council.

The joint programme will significantly increase the current number of rapid EV chargers in the district, helping to tackle a common UK-wide issue with a lack of infrastructure in rural areas.

The new chargers will also support the local economy which relies in part on tourism. As an area of outstanding natural beauty, Ryedale attracts five million visitors every year.

North Yorkshire County Council recently launched its EV Charging Consultation Strategy, and Ryedale District Council’s new charging points are in line with this plan. The council already has charge points in eight locations across Ryedale and also provides two electric pool cars for employees, enhancing its commitment to sustainable transport.

Phillip Spurr, director for place and resources for the District Council, said: “We’re delighted to make this commitment with Zest to deliver these facilities on our behalf. As the EV market continues to rise, the demand for charge points will also grow and it’s important that we are prepared for that.”

Robin Heap, CEO at Zest, said: “At Ryedale District Council, actions speak louder than words. It’s great to see a predominantly rural council set out a blueprint for sustainable transport and then deliver on it. Our long-term investment in rapid charging facilities across the area will help ensure that this beautiful part of North Yorkshire is ready to benefit from the EV revolution.”