Nottingham car park set to be an electric record-breaker

Nottingham City Council has revealed that the new Broad Marsh Car Park and Bus Station building will host the largest number of electric vehicle charge points in one location in the whole of the UK.

On course to reopen in the autumn, the council has provided an update to say that work to install the 81 charge points is nearing completion, along with a host of other smart technology that will make customer journeys easier and significantly reduce the site’s carbon footprint.

Nottingham City Council has an ambition to be the first city in the UK to be entirely carbon neutral by 2028.

In addition to the charge points, which will be operated by bp pulse, sustainability measures at the car park and bus station include: a vehicle management system which consists of electronic signs and lights showing available parking spaces, reducing vehicle movements and congestion; sensor controlled safety doors to the bus concourse. Doors will only open and close when the bus is in the bay, ensuring passenger safety, helping to retain a warm waiting area, and reducing exposure to fumes; and the installation of 720 solar panels on the roof, providing renewable electrical energy to power the car park and bus station.

There will also be charging infrastructure for buses to cater for future requirements.

Sally Longford, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Energy and Environment, said: “Today is Clean Air Day, and what better day to mark the latest in a history of pioneering initiatives we’ve taken to improve air quality for everyone who lives and works in or visits the city.

“As a council we’ve been at the forefront of embracing new electric vehicle technology, including supporting the transition to cleaner taxis, electric and biogas buses and trams, and converting our own fleet.

“While walking, cycling and using public transport remain the greenest ways to travel, we recognise there are times when a car is the most convenient option. That’s why we’ve encouraged the switch to electric vehicles, which are far kinder to the environment, including developing a regional network of more than 400 charge points in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

“We can’t carry on relying on petrol and diesel vehicles as we have in the past. Thinking about how we travel is essential to reduce air pollution and limit the effects of climate change, and ultimately to protect our planet for future generations.”