A charity has raised concerns that the installation of dozens of electric vehicle chargers could make it harder for people with disabilities or impairments to get around the streets.

Norfolk County Council's work to install electric vehicle chargers on 33 Norwich streets will start this month.

Thirteen more locations are on hold pending further design and feasibility work to make certain it is practical for them to be installed there.

The project had already been paused once, to address issues raised during public consultation, such as chargers taking up too much room on pavements, impeding people in wheelchairs and parents with buggies.

But Rachael Andrews, from Inclusive Norwich, which campaigns to make Norwich accessible, said she still had concerns the devices could block pavements.

She said: “Inclusive Norwich recognises the need for electric vehicle chargers in Norwich, as we fully support a greener, more sustainable transport strategy.

"However, our concern is that those of us who need unobstructed access to the pavement - such as wheelchair users, people with sight issues and those with other mobility needs may be being literally squeezed out of areas by the installation of on-street charger units.

"We’ve communicated this to the EV charge team at a number of meetings, and hope that the revised install plans will be taking into account this vital feedback."

Eastern Daily Press: Graham Plant, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transportGraham Plant, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport (Image: Newsquest)

Graham Plant, the council's cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport said feedback from the consultations had led to some of the site designs being reassessed.

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The council says, at each location, a chargepoint post and cabinet will be installed next to a suitable parking bay and underground cabling will be laid to connect to the electricity network.

Some on-street parking restrictions next to the chargers are being reviewed, so electric vehicles can access them.

Work starts on Monday, December 11 and all the chargepoints are due to be in place by next spring.