The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation (CIHT) has published a new report intended to help councils deliver public EV charging networks that are ‘reliable, accessible and fit for a net zero future'.

Rolling out Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure: Advice for Local Authorities, offers practical, evidence-based advice, drawing on national evidence, expert workshops and extensive engagement with local authorities, industry partners and user groups to offer a ‘clear direction on strategy, planning, delivery and long-term operation'.

Sue Percy CBE FCIHT, chief executive of CIHT, said: ‘The transition to electric vehicles is not just about technology—it is about creating a charging network that is reliable, accessible and designed for everyone. Local authorities are at the heart of making that happen. This report provides the clarity, evidence and practical guidance needed to deliver charging infrastructure at pace and at scale.'

A key point of the report is that early public provision of charging infrastructure helps unlock private investment, build confidence in EVs and support wider uptake. 

It also emphasises that access to chargepoints should be a public service, with accessibility meeting and possibly even exceeding PAS 1899 standards.

While there are some ongoing roadblocks, such as grid capacity limits, power upgrade delays and the need for future-proofed systems, the report calls on councils to ensure contracts clearly define responsibilities, expectations and requirements as the technology evolves to counter these obstacles.

Peter Molyneux FCIHT, chair of CIHT's Board of Trustees, said: ‘A comprehensive and integrated public charging network is essential to supporting zero-emission mobility. We hope this guidance helps local authorities make confident, long-term decisions that benefit communities for decades to come.'

The news comes as the Department for Transport (DfT) announced this week that it would be increasing the EV charge point grant amounts by over 40% from £350 to £500 per charge point, and added that it would be ‘streamlining' the grant application system to make it easier for people to apply. 

Find out more about the full report here.