RESIDENTS in South Ockendon have expressed concern over a Thurrock Council decision to convert 12 parking spaces at the Derwent Parade shopping precinct.

Marking put in place shows that 12 spaces in the car park are being designated for electric car use, though no charging points are in place as yet.

Ther has been criticism of the move, and a lack of consultation with resdients, on social media.

One criticism is that the bays allocated for electric vehicles, but with no charging points as yet, they are sitting empty for fear of drivers parking in them and getting fined.

The council says it plans to install charging points shortly and that six of the spaces will be available for non electric vehicles when not being used buy electric ones.

Revenue from the charging points will cover the cost of the installation and operation of the charging points says the council

A statement issued to Thurrock Nub news says: "EV charging points are being installed across the country as an important part of efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, slow down the damaging effects of climate change and respond to public demand.

"Thurrock is playing its part and will of course monitor usage to ensure we are providing residents with what they want and need.

"The scheme is cost neutral, with income covering all costs associated with running and maintaining the charging points and so won't cost the taxpayer anything.

"The charging points are expected to be installed in the next month. UKPN has to do some preparatory works, after that installation usually takes around three weeks.

"The signs have been put up as part of the works to install the charging points and should not need to be replaced.

"Six of the bays will be charging points for electric vehicles only. The other six will be dual use for electric vehicles charging at one of the six points available or for non-electric vehicles.

"Electric vehicles will be able to stay as long as they are charging. Non-electric vehicles can park in any of the six dual use bays for the existing limited maximum waiting time of four hours.

"We will monitor usage to ensure the charging points are being utilised."