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Cabinet switched-on to electric car point
Reporter: BEATRIZ AYALA
Date online: 29 November 2011
Oldham Council Cabinet IT’S green for go as Oldham revs up to welcome electric cars to its new charging hub and showroom in Hollinwood.
Cabinet yesterday approved plans to transform the former Roxy Cinema site into a one-stop shop for electric vehicles.
Members agreed a report recommending a long-term lease be awarded to the Manchester Electric Car Company (MECC) for the development which is scheduled to open in summer, 2012.
The first of its kind in England, it would include a showroom and information point, lease and rental cars and bikes, rapid charging points and an after-sales care team.
As part of the Electric Vehicle Scheme, the Hollinwood pod will be the first of six earmarked sites across Greater Manchester.
A total of 300 charging points are set to be installed across the region by 2013.
Oldham Council is leading the initiative on behalf of the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities (AGMA) which, after securing a government grant of £3.6million, attracted private investors to form the MECC.
Councillor Dave Hibbert said other local authorities had wanted the charging hub in their area.
He added: “This is clearly another example of Oldham leading the way.”
Council leader Jim McMahon said: “Hollinwood is now the focus of regeneration instead of being cast aside. In six months, look at what can be achieved with the right administration in charge.
“This is just the start for Hollinwood.
“Despite the economy, its really positive news and bucking the trend.”
Comments
It’s good to see progress, but I am not sure EVs are the right way to go are we really likely to see thousand of people flocking to charge their cars before moving on how much are they likely to spend with a 30 min charge time. How many local folk will gain sustainable employment that’s far more important?
Jim McMahon said: “Hollinwood is now the focus of regeneration" So a few charging points for electric cars means regeneration now ? Doesn't take much then. Wonder how many of these expensive to buy cars there are around Hollinwood.
Probably a false start. The electric is not as environmentally friendly as is made out, and is far less convenient for most people’s lives.
People should stop wasting money on this and invest in Hydrogen fuel cell infrastructure. Hydrogen has its flaws but less than electric / battery power and could be run like a conventional petrol or diesel car.
I hope the electric cars will be white, with a trunk on the front, big ears and a small tail at the rear?
All spin, no substance........
Have Your Say
This is wonderful news and a real coup for the borough. The council is to be praised for its initiative and forward thinking on this one. Well done.
By The Noise @ 29/11/2011 16:12:19