First on-street EV electric vehicle charging points go live in Leeds city centre

Making it easier for people to switch to low-carbon vehicles, the charge point has four bays and is located on St Paul’s Street.

It will be followed by a wider rollout in 2026 of another 70 charge points across the city, all funded by the operator Believ in partnership with Leeds City Council.

Coun Mohammed Rafique said: “As a city, we are striving to become the first net zero city in the UK by reducing carbon emissions and reversing the decline in biodiversity, by supporting people to make more sustainable choices.

“Although the best choice is always cycling, walking or travelling by public transport, we know that this is not always an option. We want to make it easy for people to switch to electric or hybrid vehicles and this first public on-street EV charge point is an important step towards delivering a comprehensive charging network that meets the needs of our residents and visitors.”

The additional charging points will be installed at both on-street and off-street locations including residential areas, community halls, sports centres and city centre sites.

The move is part of Leeds’s ambition to be the first net zero city in the UK, supporting people and businesses to make sustainable choices. A key aim of the city’s Connecting Leeds transport strategy is to make it easier for drivers to switch to electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles by installing more charging points.

“We’re proud to be supporting Leeds with the installation of its first on-street EV charge point and to be working in partnership with the council to expand charging access across the city,” said Guy Bartlett, CEO of Believ.

“Believ’s fully funded rollout will help deliver a reliable charging network, supporting residents and visitors to make the switch to electric vehicles. This is an important step in helping Leeds achieve its net zero ambitions and build a more sustainable transport network for the future.”