Electric vehicle charging and infrastructure updates

This article highlights significant news, events and progress on the Electric Vehicle infrastructure delivered by West Berkshire Council. Included will be information and images highlighting the work that we have done and the strides we are taking for a net zero future.

Berkshire rEVolution: a spark of inspiration for West Berkshire's EV future

Over 200 residents, business owners, and sustainability enthusiasts gathered at the Berkshire Electric Vehicle Awareness Event this summer to explore the future of transport and West Berkshire Council was right at the heart of it.

Held at Winnersh Triangle Business Park on 11 July 2025, the event - dubbed Berkshire rEVolution - offered a hands-on, informative experience for anyone curious about electric vehicles (EVs), climate action, and the technologies shaping our roads and beyond. 

What Made the Event Special?

Visitors had the chance to:

• test drive over 40 electric vehicles from brands like Tesla, BMW, Citroën, and Porsche
• attend expert-led presentations on EV innovation, climate change, and government grants
• explore indoor and outdoor exhibitions featuring EV infrastructure providers, sustainability initiatives, and local authority projects
• engage in panel discussions with industry leaders and academics, including speakers from the University of Reading, Energy Saving Trust, and EZOO
• at the EV event, the following WBC approved products and services were present with stands: Kerbo Charge, Solar Together (our partners), Ubitricity (on-street charging installer), and Enterprise Mobility (Car Club Provider)

The event was organised in partnership with Let's Experience Electric, Winnersh Triangle Business Park, and all six Berkshire local authorities - including West Berkshire Council.

West Berkshire's role

West Berkshire Council made a strong impression with a vibrant stand showcasing:

• EV infrastructure projects across the district
• environmental strategy materials
• press coverage of recent EV charger installations
• a branded flag and banner highlighting the Council's sustainability vision

Council Officers led by Service Lead for Climate Change, Kofi Adu-Gyamfi, engaged with attendees throughout the day, answering questions and sharing insights into local EV initiatives. Councillor Justin Pemberton and Mayor Petra Pemberton also visited the stand, discussing future plans and offering support for promoting EV adoption in Thatcham and beyond.

What did attendees think?

Feedback was overwhelmingly positive:

• 92% rated the event as Good or Excellent
• 75% said they're very likely to consider purchasing an EV
• test drives were the most popular feature, followed by presentations and exhibitor engagement

Some constructive feedback included improving signage (particularly around the customer designated parking area), sound quality during speeches, and the registration process (which was oversubscribed) - all valuable insights for future events.

Looking ahead

The success of Berkshire rEVolution has sparked interest in hosting similar events locally in West Berkshire. With growing enthusiasm for sustainable transport and strong community engagement, the Council is exploring opportunities to bring EV experiences closer to home.

Thatcham powers ahead with new 22kW EV charger at Kennet Leisure Centre

Electric vehicle (EV) drivers in Thatcham now have a faster and more convenient way to charge, thanks to the installation of a new 22kW dual EV charger at Kennet Leisure Centre car park.

Strategically located for leisure centre visitors, local shoppers, and commuters, the charger features two dedicated bays and supports contactless payment via debit/credit card or the Evolt Network app - making it easy to top up while enjoying nearby amenities.

The delivery of this charger is part of West Berkshire Council's ongoing commitment to expanding EV infrastructure and promoting Low Emission travel across the district.

The installation was officially launched by Councillor Stuart Gourley, Executive Portfolio Holder for Environment and Highways, joined by Thatcham Mayor Petra Pemberton and Councillor Justin Pemberton, both passionate advocates for electric vehicles. Also in attendance was Ian Martinez, Manager of West Berkshire Council's Car Parking Team.

Mayor Pemberton, who recently completed a cross-Europe journey in her electric vehicle, commented:

"Kennet Leisure Centre's new EV charger is a brilliant example of how local organisations can make a difference. Sustainability is a team effort, and every step like this helps us get there together."

Councillor Stuart Gourley added:

"We're making it easier for people in Thatcham to choose cleaner travel options. This new EV charger at Kennet Leisure car park is part of our wider effort to support greener living across West Berkshire."

The launch follows the success of the Berkshire Electric Vehicle Awareness Event held in July at Winnersh Triangle, where residents and businesses explored the latest EV technologies, grants, and charging solutions. You can read more about the event on the Winnersh Triangle website here.

For more information about electric vehicle initiatives in West Berkshire, visit Electric Vehicles - West Berkshire Council.

For general enquiries, contact: ev@westberks.gov.uk.