BROMSGROVE Council has been given £300,000 to spend on electric charge points for cars.

The Government cash will see a total of 10 charge points in areas including the town centre, Rubery, and Wythall, and are specifically for taxi drivers.

The district already has two ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEV) as part of its licensed taxi fleet and hopes that the new chargers will help more drivers make the change to electric.

The bid for part of the £6m pot was made after consultation with drivers and operators who highlighted the lack of rapid charging is a major consideration.

Council officers worked with partners including Worcestershire County Council, NWEDR, and neighbouring authorities to cover cross boundary issues including Birmingham, and Solihull.

The District council’s portfolio-holder for the environment, Cllr Margaret Sherrey, said: “The funding, which was announced yesterday is part of the Government’s support for ultra-low emission taxis right across the country, furthering its ambition for zero emissions by 2040.

“I am absolutely delighted that we have secured this money as this will support air quality standards in our urban areas.”