EV charging firm Zest has partnered with Southend-on-Sea City Council to provide more than 3,000 public EV charging spaces over the next 15 years.
The project, said to be one of the largest local EV charging deployments in the UK, will include lamppost, fast, and rapid chargers.
The project has received £1.4 million from the UK Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund, as well as significant investment from Zest at no cost to the council or the taxpayer.
The new network will be rolled out in phases, with installation due to begin early next year.
Zest CEO Robin Heap said: “Southend-on-Sea is setting a benchmark for how cities can lead the transition to cleaner transport with their ambitious EV infrastructure deployment plans.
“The partnership is designed to make EV ownership practical for everyone, especially communities without off-street parking.
“Such a significant long-term investment requirement reflects true ambition and leadership, ensuring Southend-on-Sea has the infrastructure it needs for an electric future while creating a blueprint for others to follow.”
Southend-on-Sea City Council leader Daniel Cowan said: “This is a big moment for Southend-on-Sea. By bringing thousands of new EV charging spaces to our streets, we’re making it easier for people across our city to choose cleaner, greener ways to travel.
“This project is about more than infrastructure, it’s about making sure every resident, every business and every visitor has access to the tools they need to be part of a more sustainable future.
“We’re proud to be working with Zest to deliver real change for our communities and lead the way nationally.”
