To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 21866/17-22, (i) to detail the process whereby local councils may secure the support of DfI Roads in order that they may legitimately apply for the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme; and (ii) whether she has passed this information to local councils.

My recent response to AQW 23382/17-22 is helpful in setting out my Department’s support to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS).

In order to undertake works on-street e.g. charge point installations, an application for a Street Works Licence, should be submitted to the local DfI Roads Section Office. Alternatively, works can be carried out on-street, without the need to apply for a Street Works Licence, if the organisation carrying out the work has statutory powers here. I can confirm that my officials have informed local councils of this process.

I would also reaffirm that my officials have recently met with Derry City and Strabane District Council and a meeting has now been set up with representatives from OZEV, EST, Derry City and Strabane District Council and my Department. My officials also highlighted at this meeting that there are well established procedures within my Department to apply for a Street Works Licence. I would also re-iterate that this funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide assistance, advice and guidance in respect of electric vehicle related matters.

I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.