As part of the panel discussion, Curbside Charging: Solving the Cross-Pavement Challenge, Dolphin (pictured left) will share practical insights from working with local authorities to roll out cable gulleys and other street-based charging solutions. Here, he discusses the barriers to large-scale delivery, the importance of thoughtful design and partnerships, and why user-focused decisions are key to building a fair and future-ready charging network.

What will you be speaking about at the symposium, and why is it important right now?

“We will be discussing how cross-pavement solutions like Gul-e enable safe, affordable home charging for people without driveways. As more local authorities begin integrating these solutions into their EV strategies, this is becoming essential to preventing a two-tier EV transition. If we want widespread EV adoption, we must ensure that residents without off-street parking have equal access to convenient, low-cost charging at home.”

From your experience, what are the biggest challenges facing organisations delivering EV charging infrastructure at scale?

“The main challenges are grid capacity constraints, planning delays, and the practical complexity of deploying infrastructure in dense and historic streets. Alongside this, there is increasing pressure to balance commercial viability with fairness and accessibility for residents.”

How can thoughtful design and early-stage planning help avoid delays, cost overruns, and community pushback?

“Good planning is crucial to reducing costs, avoiding redesigns, and preventing community pushback. By understanding the street context upfront, teams can ensure the design genuinely fits the location. Early engagement with residents and selecting the right technology for each site enables projects to run more smoothly and quickly and makes them more likely to be accepted by the community.”

What role do partnerships between local authorities, private operators, and delivery specialists play?

“Successful charging networks depend on strong collaboration between local authorities, operators, and specialist providers. When each partner brings their strengths – clear policy, investment, and technical expertise – delivery becomes faster, more consistent, and lower risk.”

How can EV charging infrastructure be better integrated into the built environment and local communities?

“EV infrastructure works best when it is thoughtfully integrated – unobtrusive, accessible, and aligned with the character of the street. Approaches such as low-profile cross-pavement channels help minimise street clutter while maintaining accessible pavements and streetscape quality. By choosing solutions that blend into their surroundings, local authorities can support charging access without compromising the look and feel of the neighbourhood.”

What lessons from recent projects should the wider industry adopt more quickly?

“Two recent projects highlight lessons the industry should adopt. From our work with Stoke-on-Trent, the key takeaway is to assess risk thoroughly but not let it delay progress. From our work with Suffolk, the message is clear – ensure open payments across all EV infrastructure, so users can simply pay using one debit or credit card rather than navigating multiple apps. Both lessons point to the same principle: practical, user-centred decisions accelerate adoption and build trust.”

Looking ahead, what should organisations prioritise to ensure EV charging infrastructure is resilient and future-ready?

“Organisations should focus on flexible, upgradeable infrastructure that can adapt as charging speeds, technologies, and user behaviour evolve. Equally, they must ensure equitable access and plan for robust, long-term maintenance – both of which are essential to creating a charging network that remains reliable, inclusive, and resilient over time.”

What do you hope attendees will gain from your session?

“We hope attendees leave with a clearer understanding of the vital role cross-pavement charging plays in delivering fair and inclusive EV adoption. We want councils to feel confident about deploying these solutions safely, affordably, and at scale, ensuring that residents without driveways are not left behind as EV adoption accelerates.”

The UK Charging Infrastructure Symposium will take place on 4-5 March 2026 at the British Motor Museum. Book your delegate pass today by clicking here.