A spokesperson for Halton Borough Council says:
“This pilot project specifically targeted areas where there is little or no off-road parking. This is so people without driveways can have the opportunity to consider switching to an electric car.
“Before installing this set of 29 electric charging points, we consulted people in a number of neighbourhoods and asked residents to suggest locations. Having considered the most popular and most practical suggestions, five locations, including Routledge Street, were chosen.
“Once the areas were selected, we wrote to residents and held drop-in sessions inviting them to give their views and ask questions. We received positive feedback, and took into account all comments made on the scheme proposals.
“The scheme had to cater for all different needs, for example by not hindering pedestrians and those with mobility aids, being convenient for EV users, and also for the people who live there and use the street to park their cars. The charging points were measured to ensure there is enough room for a wheelchair, or a double buggy to pass them.
“Unlike the charge points installed in other areas, the reason the Routledge Street charging points are set back from the kerb is to prevent them being knocked over. In these terraced streets the residents park up on the kerb on both sides of the road to allow traffic to continue to flow between the parked cars.
“We will be asking residents who use the charging points to be considerate to other people and keep the cables tidy after use.
“The installation of the charging points is a relatively new initiative across the country and the Council is keen to ensure they are both safe for all road users and accessible to those who wish to use them. It will as always listen carefully to any feedback received and do what it can to satisfy both of those objectives.
“We intend to consult widely with organisations such as the RNIB when considering further roll-outs, having considered the feedback from the pilot schemes.”