Electric vehicle charging points

Information on electric vehicles and public charging infrastructure.

To support cleaner transport and cut emissions, we aim to install hundreds of electric vehicle charging points (EVCPs) by 2030.

EVCPs will be located across the borough so that every resident is within a reasonable walking distance of a charging point. This will make switching to electric vehicles more practical, helping us all move toward a cleaner, greener borough.

Improving air quality is a top priority for Barking and Dagenham Council, as pollution continues to impact residents’ health.

On-street EV charging

The Council does not allow charging electric vehicles from private power supplies using cables laid across, above, or beneath the public highway at this present time. Such setups pose significant safety risks and may result in liability for anyone who installs them.

Like several other London boroughs, we have serious concerns around safety, legal liability, maintenance, street cleansing, and the coordination of utility works related to privately run charging cables.

Current chargepoint operators

Connected Kerb 

Typical kW: 7kw (AC)

Connector: Type 2

Charge time: 5 to 6 hours

Current tariff: £0.50 per kwh

Number in Barking and Dagenham: 84

To find out more about using a Connected Kerb charging point, including frequently asked questions, please refer to the Connected Kerb website or download the ‘Connected Kerb’ app.

Source London

Typical kW: 7kw (AC)

Connector: Type 1 & Type 2

Charge time: 5 to 6 hours

PAYG tariff: £0.62 per kwh (Resident memberships available)

Number in Barking and Dagenham: 18

To find out more about using a Source London charging point, please refer to the Source London website or download the ‘TotalEnergies Charge Europe’ app.

Other operators

A number of other operators provide EV charging services at retail locations and new developments throughout Barking and Dagenham. For specific information, please contact the provider directly.

Electric vehicle charging points frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Council installing electric vehicle (EV) charge points?

We’re supporting London’s shift to cleaner travel. EV charge points help improve air quality, lower carbon emissions, and give residents access to more sustainable transport options.

Can I install a charger at home?

Running cables across pavements, even with cable covers, is not permitted due to safety risks. Residents without driveways can request an on-street charging point using our EV request form.

However if you have off-street parking and own the property (or have landlord consent), you may install a home charger in certain circumstances. Installation must be carried out by a qualified professional. 

In order to be installed without planning permission, they must comply with the requirements set out in the relevant section of the General Permitted Development Order. The relevant sections are available on the legislation.gov.uk website at the links below:

In some cases, planning permission may be required. For further information and advice and to submit a pre-application request, please visit our get pre application advice page.

I park on the street, what are my options?

You can:

Please note every request is assessed for feasibility, demand, and safety. We can’t guarantee installation.

How long does charging take?

It depends on charger speed.  Please see table below for further information.

Charger Type Power Time to Charge
Slow Up to 7kW 5 to 7 hours
Fast 7 to 22kW 2 to 4 hours
Rapid 50kW+ Around 30 minutes

What does it cost?

Costs vary by operator. Typical pricing is:

  • £0.50 to £0.70 per kWh
  • rapid chargers cost more
  • most accept contactless or app payments

The Council does not set prices for commercial chargers.

Can I park in an EV bay without charging?

No. EV bays are strictly reserved for vehicles that are actively charging. 

What should I do if a charge point isn’t working?

Report the fault via the charging operator’s app or helpline (details usually on the unit).

If unresolved, contact our EV support team at email evsupport@lbbd.gov.uk

How does the Council decide where to install charge points?

We use criteria including:

  • resident requests
  • EV ownership rates
  • accessibility for disabled users
  • power availability
  • impact on trees and the streetscape

Installations in residential areas go through resident consultation before approval.

I have other questions, who can I contact?

For general EV enquiries, contact our EV support team at email evsupport@lbbd.gov.uk