Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: February 5, 2026

Purpose: To obtain approval from cabinet for this proposed new policy.

Content: The Cabinet consider a report of the Director of Economy and Place, which sought approval of the Electric Vehicle (EV) Cable Channel Policy setting out the council’s plan for the rollout of EV charging infrastructure in Rochdale.   The Portfolio Holder Highways and Facilities delivered a brief summary of the report’s key points.   The Policy Adviser (Electric Vehicle Infrastructure) was in attendance to present the information and to address questions and comments of the Cabinet Members.   The Officer informed that the aim of the policy was to provide, through the council directly, a scheme by which Rochdale residents could purchase, install and maintain cross-pavement channels outside their property. This scheme would be exclusively for residents who were reliant on on-street parking (i.e. without a driveway or a designated bay in a car park).   Resolved that the Electric Vehicle (EV) Cable Channel Policy (included in Appendix 1 to the report) be approved.   Reason for decision: The Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure (EVCI) Policy outlined the council’s strategy for the rollout of EV charging infrastructure in Rochdale.  The EVCI Policy highlighted the need for EVCI at terraced dwelling that have no off-street parking available. These properties would be reliant on publicly accessible charging and innovative Cross Pavement Channels to provide charging for EVs.   Alternatives considered and rejected: In late 2024 the Government issued a white paper on options for footway channels to Local Authorities. Two options were discussed within the white paper. A Local Authority led and owned scheme. The alternative option considered in the white paper was for a private sector led scheme with the Council providing oversight through powers in the New Roads and Street Works Act. The alternative was considered and rejected as it was viewed that a private sector led option would be difficult to monitor quality and in the event of a provider no longer operating, the asset would revert to become the Council’s responsibility, as per the New Roads and Street Works Act.