Three Ayrshire councils have joined forces for a multi-million pound scheme to expand the electric vehicle (EV) charging network across the region. EV charge point operator (CPO) Believ has teamed up with East, North and South Ayrshire Councils to deliver more than 600 chargers at approximately 300 locations.
The 15-year agreement, delivered alongside Transport Scotland and the Scottish Futures Trust, combines over £2.8 million from the Scottish Government's EV Infrastructure Fund with more than £15 million in committed capital investment from Believ. The CPO will manage all charge point operation and ongoing maintenance.
Charging speeds and coverage
The roll-out will provide a mix of charging speeds, from standard plus to rapid, offering practical options for drivers requiring long-stay or overnight charging as well as faster top ups. Urban, rural and island communities will be included, extending access across the region, including the Isle of Arran.
East Ayrshire will receive around 180 additional chargers, North Ayrshire around 210, and South Ayrshire around 220. The project also includes passive provision to enable the installation of over 450 new chargers without disruption when usage increases.
Existing network and accessibility
Believ will take over management of existing chargers, building on foundations already delivered through the ChargePlace Scotland network. Drivers will be informed on the migration process via appropriate channels, including social media and council websites.
At least five accessible charging locations in each council area will be included, helping ensure public charging is accessible for drivers with a range of mobility needs.
Official response
Stephen Flynn, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Tourism and Transport, said: “I’m delighted that £2.8 million from the Scottish Government will support 600 new EV chargers in Ayrshire. Our Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Fund is enabling local authorities to partner with each other and with the private sector to attract private investment and help drivers in Ayrshire continue to make the switch to EVs.”
Guy Bartlett, Believ CEO, said: “We’re proud to be supporting the region in expanding access to reliable and accessible EV charging across the region. This partnership builds on the foundations already delivered through the ChargePlace Scotland network and will help support the transition to electric vehicles across Ayrshire’s urban, rural and island communities.”
Councillor Tony Gurney, Leader of North Ayrshire Council, said: “We want to make Ayrshire greener and to try and give everyone equal access to technology so that we can encourage as many people as possible to go electric.” Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council, added: “This is an important step that all three councils are taking in a bid to be net-zero by 2030.” Councillor Brian Connolly, Leader of South Ayrshire Council, said: “This is a significant investment in South Ayrshire’s transport infrastructure that will help us meet the growing demand for electric vehicle charging across our communities.”
Installation of the first new charge points is expected to begin early next year.
