Local authorities are urging central government for clearer guidance and faster action to ensure the UK’s expanding public EV charging network is accessible to all drivers, as new research reveals many councils are struggling to deliver inclusive infrastructure in congested urban spaces.
According to a report by EV charge point operator Believ, more than half (53%) of councils say balancing the need for accessible charge points with local space constraints is problematic. Narrow streets, limited footway width and competing resident demands are making it difficult to deliver charging that works for everyone. The issue is particularly acute in London, where the figure rises to 90%.
While 60% of UK councils have or are working on an accessibility plan, the research found that 4% are not yet considering disabled access for EV charging, and 37% of those responsible for EV infrastructure are unsure whether their networks are operating to an accessibility framework.
Accessible charging is critical for the UK’s 1.35 million disabled drivers, many of whom will rely on public charging as the transition to electric vehicles accelerates. In 2022, the British Standards Institution introduced PAS 1899, a voluntary specification designed to improve the accessibility of public charge points, setting out minimum requirements for space, layout, and ease of use.
However, with the guidance not mandatory, local authorities are calling for more practical support. More than two-fifths (42%) of national councils and 60% of London councils want additional direction from central government on implementation.
Guy Bartlett, CEO of Believ said: ‘As the EV transition gathers pace, we must ensure no driver is left behind. Some local authorities are working hard to expand accessible charging provision, but many are facing real-world constraints, particularly where streets are narrow and space is limited.
‘Our research shows that local authorities are currently unclear on best practice – this needs to change. While the solutions are not always straight-forward, they are available. So, the answer is not to compromise on inclusion, but to provide the guidance and support councils need to implement accessibility confidently and consistently.’
Believ contributed to a 2025 review of PAS 1899, which brought together disability groups, local authorities, and charge point operators to assess how the standard is working in practice. The review highlighted the need for implementation advice tailored to different scenarios, particularly on-street installations where space is tight.
Bartlett added: ‘Cleaner air and lower emissions should benefit everyone. We want to see the outcomes of the PAS 1899 review translated into practical improvements on the ground, backed by clearer guidance for local authorities, so that accessible charging becomes standard, not exceptional.’
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