Tamworth MP Supports BVRLA’s EV Charging Initiative

Hello, Champions of Net Zero!

In an inspiring move towards a sustainable future, Labour MP Sarah Edwards has voiced her support for a nationwide initiative aimed at enhancing access to electric vehicle (EV) charging points at key tourist destinations across the UK. This campaign is particularly focused on iconic sites, beginning with the historic Tamworth Castle, a landmark that holds great significance in the community.

Recently, Edwards met with representatives from the Bon VoyCharge campaign alongside local stakeholders at the majestic Tamworth Castle. The event marked a pivotal moment as she signed the Bon VoyCharge campaign car, which is embarking on a summer tour of various MP constituencies and notable UK sites in anticipation of the upcoming Labour Party Conference this autumn.

The Bon VoyCharge campaign, spearheaded by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA), has garnered support from various sectors including vehicle rental, EV charging, tourism, and hospitality. The objective is clear: to advocate for an increase in destination charging facilities at places like castles, theme parks, hotels, and holiday resorts. These locations, often overlooked in the UK’s current charging infrastructure rollout, are crucial for promoting EV adoption and bolstering local economies.

Statistics reveal a significant opportunity for growth in this area. In 2024, the UK welcomed a staggering 41.2 million international visitors and recorded 106 million overnight stays by British residents. However, despite this influx of tourists, there are only about 7,500 EV charging points located at tourism-related sites. This discrepancy highlights the pressing need for enhanced charging infrastructure to support both visitors and local economies.

The Bon VoyCharge initiative aims to illuminate the importance of strategically planning and installing destination chargers at such tourist hotspots, like Tamworth Castle. By doing so, the campaign aspires to attract more visitors, encourage longer stays, and promote a more sustainable exploration of the UK.

Sarah Edwards, the MP for Tamworth, stated, “If we’re serious about making EVs a practical option for everyone, charging points at key destinations like this are essential. They give people the confidence to explore our towns and cities in an electric vehicle, knowing they can recharge while enjoying all we have to offer. By enabling EV drivers to recharge at our local treasures, we not only reduce emissions, we also encourage tourism, boost local spending, and future-proof our attractions.”

Echoing this sentiment, Tom McLennan, the director of policy and public affairs at the BVRLA, emphasized the importance of local leadership in bridging the gaps present in the national charging network. He remarked, “Destination charging isn’t just about convenience – it’s about unlocking the economic, environmental, and tourism benefits that come with a confident, connected EV network. We look forward to working with Sarah and other MPs to make this vision a reality.”

Currently, Tamworth Castle is equipped with eight rapid chargers located in the Castle Pleasure Grounds car park, also known as Riverdrive. These charging points are part of Tamworth Borough Council’s commitment to adopting Staffordshire County Council’s electric vehicle charging strategy, which aims to install over three thousand charge points across Staffordshire in the next seven years.

This initiative not only represents a significant step towards improving the EV charging landscape in the UK but also aligns with broader goals of achieving net-zero emissions and fostering sustainable tourism practices. By enhancing EV infrastructure at tourist destinations, we can create a more inclusive and environmentally friendly travel experience, ensuring that our cherished landmarks remain accessible to all while contributing positively to our planet.

As we move forward, it is essential for stakeholders at all levels to rally behind this campaign, recognising the critical role that destination charging plays in supporting the transition to electric vehicles. The collaboration between local authorities, businesses, and community leaders is vital for creating a robust EV charging network that meets the needs of both residents and visitors alike.

In conclusion, the Bon VoyCharge campaign stands as a beacon of hope for a sustainable future, encouraging us all to embrace electric mobility and explore the beauty of the UK in an environmentally conscious way. With leaders like Sarah Edwards advocating for change, we can look forward to a time when charging points are as ubiquitous as the attractions they serve, paving the way for a greener, cleaner, and more connected future.

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting initiative and how it unfolds in the coming months. Together, let’s champion the cause for a net-zero future and make sustainable travel a reality for everyone!