Local authorities need stronger Government support to deliver a fair and accessible electric vehicle charging network, according to the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning and Transport (ADEPT).

The organisation has published a new policy position highlighting concerns that the UK’s transition to electric vehicles could slow unless charging infrastructure becomes more equitable, reliable and affordable.

With more than 1.9 million fully electric vehicles now on UK roads and EVs accounting for almost a quarter of new car registrations in 2025, demand for charging infrastructure continues to grow.

However, ADEPT has warned that between eight and nine million households without access to off-street parking remain heavily reliant on public charging networks. The organisation says public charging can cost more than three times as much as charging a vehicle at home, creating a significant affordability challenge for many drivers.

To address the issue, ADEPT is calling on the Government to introduce a range of measures, including reducing VAT on public charging, investing in rapid charging hubs along major routes and developing a national payment platform that allows drivers to access charging points across different operators through a single system.

The organisation believes a more coordinated national approach is needed to support local authorities as they plan and deliver charging infrastructure in their communities.

Ann Carruthers, former chair of ADEPT’s Transport & Connectivity Board and past president of the organisation, said councils require greater funding, powers and consistency from central government to ensure the transition to electric vehicles is delivered effectively and fairly.

ADEPT argues that without further intervention, disparities in charging access and cost could become a barrier to wider EV adoption, particularly for households that depend entirely on public charging infrastructure.