Torridge District Council has appointed electric vehicle charge point operator (CPO) Believ, to deliver a new network of public EV charging infrastructure across the district, supporting residents, businesses and visitors while helping accelerate the transition to cleaner transport.
The partnership will see Believ install and operate up to 26 chargers across a mix of standard plus* and rapid charging speeds in council-owned car parks throughout Torridge. The first phase of installations is expected to go live later this year, with charging points to be installed at Churchfield Car Park, Appledore, Riverbank Car Park, Bideford and Manor Car Park in Holsworthy.
Serving more than 68,000 residents across north-west Devon, including the towns of Bideford, Great Torrington and Holsworthy, Torridge District Council is committed to supporting sustainable growth and reducing carbon emissions across the district.
The rollout will be fully funded by Believ, which will be responsible for the supply, installation, operation and maintenance of the charging network. Working closely with the council, the scheme has also been designed to include accessible parking bays where possible, with charging hardware meeting accessibility requirements as standard.
Believ was selected through a competitive public procurement process, with the council identifying the company as the most advantageous delivery partner capable of meeting the project’s ambitious timescales.
Councillor Bob Hicks, Lead Member of Economy & Estates, Torridge District Council, said:
“This is a real step change to make the transition from traditional cars to EVs an easier one. Our collaboration with Believ will ensure that all communities across Torriidge will benefit. As EVs are not producing exhaust emissions, they are better for local air quality and generally better for the environment, making this a great place to visit, work and live in.”
Guy Bartlett, CEO of Believ, said:
“We’re delighted to be partnering with Torridge District Council to bring reliable and accessible EV charging to communities across North Devon. By fully funding and delivering this network, we can help ensure that residents, businesses and visitors have the confidence to make the switch to electric vehicles. This supports the council’s wider ambitions around sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, without requiring use of public funds. Together, we’re creating infrastructure that will benefit the district for many years to come.”
