Electric vehicle footway channels

To improve access to electric vehicle (EV) charging, we are accepting applications from residents who would like us to install a footway channel outside their property. This forms part of our commitment to encouraging the use of electric vehicles for journeys that cannot be made using public transport, on foot or by bike.

How the channels work

Footway channels are gullies cut across the pavement to allow a charging cable to be run from your property to an electric vehicle parked at the kerbside. They sit flush with the pavement, safely stowing the cable in the channel while the car is charged.

Our footway channels are provided by Kerbo Charge.

Who can apply

Not all addresses are suitable for footway channels.

You must read the terms and conditions carefully before you decide whether to apply. Only make an application if you are confident you can meet all the terms and conditions and that your application will be successful. The initial application fee is non-refundable.

Application process and costs

If you believe your property is suitable for installation and would like to request a footway channel, you can apply online.

There are two stages to the application process, each with separate non-refundable fees.

First, complete an online application form and pay a non-refundable fee of £100.

Start application

After you apply

After we receive your initial application, we will arrange for studies and surveys to be undertaken to assess if installation is possible. If it is, you will be asked to make a one-off payment of £1,250 to cover the cost of purchasing and installing the footway channel. We will then arrange for installation to take place. You can read further details in our terms and conditions.

Bear in mind that the £1,250 installation fee may reduce later this year if we receive a grant from a new £25m government fund announced on 13 July 2025, which is being set up to help councils with the cost of installing footway channels. It is important to note that any reduction in this fee cannot be applied retrospectively, so if you decide to proceed now and the cost is later reduced, you will not qualify for a refund.

In addition to the application and installation fees, use of the cable channel will be subject to a three-year Section 178 licence, renewable at the end of each three-year term. The licence fee costs £150.

Fees will be reviewed periodically.

Timescales

The time taken to process an application will vary and requires input from various stakeholders. We will be in touch as soon as a decision has been reached.

Chargepoint grant

If your application for a footway channel is approved you may qualify for a government grant of up to £350 to help you buy and install an EV chargepoint at your home.

Do not apply for this grant until you have been notified that your application for a footway channel has been approved.