As a resident of Horsham, I find myself in the difficult position of not being able to benefit from low-cost home charging of my electric vehicle (EV) due to a lack of on-street parking. This expense can be mitigated by using gully pavement trails that safely facilitate on-street charging, a solution that other councils have already implemented after successful trials. However, in West Sussex, we are yet to even begin exploring this possibility.

Local authorities across the UK have been proactive in recognising the vital role that EVs play in reducing carbon emissions. Yet, areas like ours in West Sussex are being left behind. We urge the West Sussex County Council to take inspiration from councils like Portsmouth and Surrey to name but two. So why are we going last?

https://www.kerbocharge.com/locations/surrey (Other brands are also in the market). 

The response I had from WSCC is here (snip from an email chain).

“Just because one council has done due diligence and put forward a scheme, doesn’t mean other councils would just follow suit. As you can imagine, the custodians of the highway need to do their due diligence before signing off on a project. As it stands, there is many more pressing projects on WSCC highways before cross channel charging solutions are on the agenda.”

The local government has a responsibility to promote sustainable living conditions for its residents. Yes there are public charge points being installed, but the cost of using these is so much higher. 

Your signature is not just a support for local rights, but also a stride towards a sustainable future. 

We call upon the West Sussex County Council to start a gully pavement trial in Horsham. Please sign this petition to spearhead the change we need.