A new EV charging zone is coming to the Morrisons car park in Ayr.
A planning application was previously lodged with South Ayrshire Council, seeking permission for the installation of the new feature at the Castlehill Road store.
The applicant in the proposal was the Motor Fuel Group and the agents are Carney Sweeney, who said in a planning statement that they wanted to create an EV charging zone and erect a canopy with LV panel, meter cabinet and associated works.
Those proposals, for four new vehicle charging stations, have been approved by the local authority under delegated powers.
A statement from the applicants said: “The UK has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 28 per cent by 2035 and moving to Net Zero by 2050. As part of the Net Zero strategy (October 2021), the UK Government have placed a new emphasis on electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the UK.
“As part of this drive, it is essential that there is a comprehensive and competitive EV charging network in place.
“MFG’s proposal to install new EV charging points at the Morrisons site should be considered positively in light of the national context and the demand for necessary infrastructure to support electric vehicle use across the UK.
“The proposals would contribute positively to the existing EV charging network. The proposals would enhance the existing offer at the site without compromising the efficient operation of the facility.”
The planning application adds: “MFG is the UK’s largest independent forecourt operator with over 900 sites offering a dual-fuel strategy, convenient retail and ‘food to go’.
“For the above mentioned reasons, MFG are looking to roll-out an extensive supply of EV charging facilities at existing Morrisons sites across the UK to diversify their existing offer, with the aspiration to make it as easy to charge your vehicle as refuelling with petrol or diesel.”
The proposal had involved the erection of a canopy over the charging stations and parking bays. However, following discussion with the agent, this aspect of the proposal was removed over “concerns” about the loss of established trees, the potential adverse impact on the visual amenity of neighbouring properties on Castlehill Road and the impact on the setting of a listed building.
In approving the plans council papers said: “The provision of new EV charging points within the curtilage of the existing supermarket would enhance the existing EV charging network, and thus aligns with the national policy and addresses the growing demand for EV infrastructure across Scotland. The proposed development will improve the site’s current offerings with minimum impact on its current operation.”