Labour has faced mounting pressure to accelerate the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure at Britain's major tourist attractions.
A new cross-industry campaign has argued that heritage sites, theme parks and holiday destinations have been largely excluded from the nation's charging network expansion.
The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association has spearheaded the Bon VoyCharge initiative, which brings together partners from the car rental, charging infrastructure, tourism and hospitality sectors.
**ARE YOU READING THIS ON OUR APP? DOWNLOAD NOW FOR THE BEST GB NEWS EXPERIENCE**
Their campaign vehicle has been visiting parliamentary constituencies and landmark locations throughout the summer, building momentum ahead of Labour's autumn party conference.
Experts have warned that the UK tourism sector could suffer if new chargers are not rolled out
|BVRLA
The coalition advocates for "destination charging" - infrastructure at locations where visitors spend extended periods. They argue this approach would boost electric vehicle uptake while supporting regional economies.
The campaign reached Tamworth on August 14, where local MP Sarah Edwards joined representatives at the town's medieval castle. The Grade I listed fortress, which has stood for more than nine centuries, exemplifies the type of destination the initiative targets.
Ms Edwards signed the campaign vehicle during the visit, demonstrating her support for enhanced charging provision at heritage locations.
The Labour MP has previously championed investment in the castle, securing substantial funding earlier this year for preservation and tourism development.
The Labour MP has backed support for more electric chargers
|BVRLA
The Bon VoyCharge tour has already included a stop at Alton Towers, where campaigners held discussions with Lilian Greenwood MP, the Minister for the Future of Roads.
The roadshow continued its journey to prominent tourist sites and parliamentary constituencies before culminating at the Labour Party Conference this autumn.
Ms Edwards emphasised the critical role of charging infrastructure in supporting sustainable tourism during the castle visit.
She said: "Tamworth Castle is a world-class heritage site that attracts visitors from far and wide. If we're serious about making EVs a practical option for everyone, charging points at key destinations like this are essential."
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
- Rachel Reeves' car taxes see certain drivers pay £5,490 as millions look to give up driving to save money
- Major car brands recall 475,000 vehicles as faults could lead to accidents and fires - Ford, Kia and more
- Britons fail to back e-bikes as uptake of green vehicles falls to lowest level across Europe
The Tamworth MP added: "They give people the confidence to explore our towns and cities in an electric vehicle, knowing they can recharge while enjoying all we have to offer. By enabling EV drivers to recharge at our local treasures, we not only reduce emissions, we also encourage tourism, boost local spending, and future-proof our attractions."
The UK's tourism infrastructure faces a substantial charging point deficit, according to campaign data. Britain welcomed 41.2 million international tourists in 2024, while domestic travellers made 106 million overnight trips.
Despite tourism generating more than £30billion yearly for the economy, merely 7,500 electric vehicle charging points exist at tourism-related sites nationwide. This shortfall represents both a challenge and an opportunity for growth in sustainable travel infrastructure.
The disparity between visitor numbers and available charging facilities underscores the campaign's urgency. Tourist destinations remain significantly underserved compared to other sectors in the national charging network rollout.
Labour has been urged to introduce new charging points across key tourist areas
|BVRLA
The gap threatens to limit electric vehicle adoption amongst both domestic and international visitors exploring Britain's attractions.
The initiative has outlined specific goals for expanding destination charging across Britain. These include spotlighting the necessity for planned installations at tourist sites to draw visitors, extend their stays and promote sustainable exploration.
The campaign intends to produce practical guidance and best-practice frameworks, enabling historic venues, accommodation providers and attractions to establish electric vehicle infrastructure.
Tom McLennan, the BVRLA's Director of Policy and Public Affairs, praised Edwards for her sustained engagement on electric vehicles. "Local leadership is key to closing the gaps in our national charging network. Destination charging isn't just about convenience, it's about unlocking the economic, environmental, and tourism benefits that come with a confident, connected EV network," he said.