The West Midlands Combined Authority has appointed Avison Young on a mandate to seek and acquire EV charging station sites across the region, following a competitive process.
The WCMA is looking for land for 10 “ultrafast” charging stations, with potential to explore further sites in light of the 2030 ban on selling new petrol and diesel vehicles. Each station will be equipped with charging points that aim to deliver a full charge within circa 30 minutes.
Sites will also involve scope for a retail space or drive-through, similar to fuel and service station offers.
The authority has set out a long-term vision to ensure all constituents living and working in the region will have access to EV charging facilities close to their home or business.
Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands and chair of the WMCA, said: “These new planned stations will make EV charging much easier and far more accessible – keeping people and businesses moving whilst accelerating EV adoption right across our region.
“This new initiative forms part of our wider efforts to invest in the green transport network of the future – aligning very well with our ‘#WM2041’ net zero commitment.”
Richard Jones, director at Avison Young, said: “The EV revolution continues apace across the West Midlands and beyond, with the region and particularly the WMCA gaining recognition for their investment and impetus in making it happen. These charging stations are just another example of the WMCA’s commitment and willingness to move fast and ensure parity of support for all areas across the West Midlands.
“Much like our work with the NEC, we are seeing more organisations, including local authorities, needing advice on how to support the adoption and move to EVs across the country. We’re now keen to engage with landowners and property companies to identify opportunities that could potentially be used for these new charging stations.”
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