Cross pavement chargers could spark electric car revolution in Rochdale

Wednesday, 4 February 2026 18:00

By David Murphy

Residents without driveways could soon charge electric vehicles at home under a new council-backed proposal to install cross pavement chargers across the borough.

Rochdale Borough Council will consider plans on Thursday 5 February to support the rollout of home charging channels across pavements, allowing residents without off-street parking to safely plug in their electric vehicles.

The £149,000 project, backed by government funding, would cover up to 125 properties in the first phase. Homeowners would still need to fund their own charger, although small grants could be made available to help cover the cost.

Cross pavement chargers use specially designed cable channels installed into the pavement surface, allowing people to run charging cables from their home to their vehicle without creating a trip hazard.

Councillor Shah Wazir, cabinet member for highways, said the scheme could be transformative for people currently locked out of electric car ownership.

He said: “Electric cars will play a major role in helping us reach our goal, as part of Greater Manchester, of becoming carbon neutral by 2038. But the lack of access to affordable at home charging means owning and running an electric vehicle remains out of reach for a lot of people.”

“This rollout, should it be approved at cabinet, will make a huge difference by supporting the many residents across our borough who don’t have access to a garage or drive.”

On average, home charging in the UK costs around 7p per mile, compared to 17p per mile using public chargepoints. Councillors hope the scheme will help reduce overall costs for drivers and encourage take-up of cleaner vehicles.

The proposal follows a successful pilot carried out in 2025. If approved, contractors would be appointed through a tender process, with installations expected to begin in the summer.

The move forms part of a wider drive to expand electric vehicle infrastructure in the borough. Around 300 additional chargers are also planned for council car parks and other public spaces over the next two years.

Details on how to apply, and who qualifies, will be published once the rollout is formally signed off.