Home and On-street charging via a cross pavement channel
Charging an electric vehicle on the public highway by trailing a cable across the pavement is not permitted.
Cables laid across the footway or suspended overhead create a significant safety risk for pedestrians. This includes people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, parents with pushchairs and people with visual impairments. Under the Highways Act 1980, it is an offence to place wires, cables or other apparatus across a highway where they may endanger the public. Residents may also be personally liable if someone trips and is injured as a result.
Current position in Somerset
At present, Somerset Council does not allow the installation of cross-pavement cable channels (also known as pavement gullies) for home electric vehicle charging. This decision is based on safety, accessibility and liability considerations associated with the public highway.
However, the Council recognises that access to on-street charging remains a key barrier for many residents without off-street parking. As a result, this issue is under active consideration as part of the Council’s wider EV infrastructure strategy.
Work under development
The Council has established a Cross-Pavement Solution Task and Finish Group to explore potential options and develop a consistent approach. This work includes assessing safety, suitability, maintenance responsibility and approval criteria.
A report setting out a proposed way forward is being considered by scrutiny in June. This will help inform the next steps. It is important to note that, even if a policy is adopted in future, not all property types or locations will be suitable for cross-pavement channels.
Alternative public charging options
We secured funding through the Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) scheme, which will support the delivery of additional public charging facilities across the county.
Residents can suggest locations they believe would benefit from EV charging infrastructure via the Council’s online service: Suggest a chargepoint location.
In the meantime, some residents may wish to explore community charging schemes, where private home chargers are shared through platforms such as Co Charger.