Electric vehicle (EVs) drivers will be able to use new charging points at eight locations across Test Valley, thanks to Swedish utility company Vattenfall.

A combined 18 charging points will be in place across the eight locations, as Test Valley Borough Council looks to support the growing use of EVs.

The new points will be installed at the Chantry Centre, Shepherds Spring Lane, George Yard, South Street and Borden Gates car parks in Andover.

In Romsey, they will be put in place at Alma Road, Lortemore Place and Princes Road.  

Councillor Nick Adams-King said: “We have to make sure we are not just keeping up with change, but trying our best to stay one step ahead.

“There is a growing number of electric vehicles driving in our borough and there is no reason why they shouldn’t be able to top up their charges at a number of our car parks.

“We are taking the proposition of a climate change emergency extremely seriously so I’m pleased that this is a step we have been able to take.”

The charging points will be operated by Vattenfall on the InCharge network, with renewable electricity supplied by Vattenfall’s UK wind farms.

The 18 charging points will be able to provide a full charge for most vehicles between one and four hours depending on vehicle size and technology.

Anthony Hinde, Vattenfall’s director for InCharge in the UK, said: “With Vattenfall’s InCharge we are determined to put the driver first and enable fossil free living within one generation.

“Our charging stations will improve the electric vehicle driver experience in Hampshire and across Britain.”

Recently, a study from the Zap-Map EV Charging Survey, showed the demand for more powerful EV charging options.