Southend-on-Sea leads the charge with 3,000 new EV charging spaces

November 19, 2025

Southend residents, businesses, and visitors will soon have easier access to electric vehicle (EV) charging, as Southend-on-Sea City Council partners with Zest to install over 3,000 public chargers across the city. The project starts early next year and aims to make cleaner, greener travel easier for everyone.

The new network will include a mix of lamp post, fast, and rapid chargers to suit different drivers’ needs. Sites are being chosen to make sure all communities, especially those without off-street parking, can access charging conveniently.

The project is one of the largest local EV charging schemes in the UK. It is supported by £1.4 million from the Government’s Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund, along with significant investment from Zest, at no cost to the Council. The new chargers will help reduce carbon emissions and improve local air quality.

Councillor Daniel Cowan, Leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council said: "This is a big moment for Southend. By bringing thousands of new EV charging spaces to our streets, we’re making it easier for people to choose cleaner, greener ways to travel. This project is about giving everyone the tools to be part of a sustainable future. We’re proud to work with Zest to deliver real change for our communities."

Robin Heap, CEO of Zest, said: “Southend is setting a benchmark for how cities can lead the transition to cleaner transport with their ambitious EV infrastructure deployment plans. The partnership is designed to make EV ownership practical for everyone, especially communities without off-street parking. Such a significant long-term investment requirement reflects true ambition and leadership, ensuring Southend has the infrastructure it needs for an electric future while creating a blueprint for others to follow.”