Push to relocate Queenscliff EV bowsers

THE Borough of Queenscliffe is under growing pressure to relocate two electric vehicle (EV) charging stations away from a historic residential street.

The fast chargers, situated at 50 Learmonth St, have the capability to fully charge an EV in roughly 40 to 90 minutes.

Local resident Josephine Pitt said the chargers were inappropriate for the location.

“The Borough of Queenscliffe council has made another terrible decision with the installation of 3m high EV charging stations in a historic residential street within a heritage overlay area, with no community consultation.

“The council also failed to notify neighbours who are now affected by noise, traffic congestion and reduced property values.”

“Why does the council boast of its protection of Queenscliff’s heritage and at the same time destroy a heritage streetscape, violating its own planning scheme in the process?” asked Ms Pitt

The charging stations use wind-powered renewable energy, facilitated through a power purchase agreement with the Victorian Energy Collaboration, costing 45c per kilowatt via the Chargefox app.

While Ms Pitt supported the expansion of the regional EV charging network, she was critical of the borough’s implementation strategy.

“Lessons must be learned from other councils, who are positioning such infrastructure in public carparks or in partnership with supermarkets, service stations or tourist hubs.

“The Southern Grampians Shire council recently voted to move EV chargers from Memorial Park in Hamilton

after a similar public outcry, showing that they are responsive, respectful and switched on.”

A petition launched in December

2023 by concerned residents is nearing 200 signatures.

“These giant EV chargers must be moved to a more suitable location. Please support the change.org petition.”

A borough spokesperson said the petition would be discussed by councillors at their next meeting.

“Council has received a petition signed by 133 people calling for the EV Chargers to be relocated.

“Council will consider the request at the Ordinary Council meeting in February 2024.”