GovWire

Transport Minister Andrew Jones visited the Eden Project in Cornwall today (6 August 2015) to open the first rapid plug in car chargepoint at the site, part of 16 being installed in the region in summer 2015.

The public will be able to use the new infrastructure to charge their plug in cars in as little as 30 minutes. DfT provided grants totalling up to 765,000 for a rapid charging network in Devon and Cornwall, ensuring residents and visitors can have easy access to fast, convenient chargepoints.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said:

Plug-in vehicles are cheaper to run, better for the environment and an increasingly popular choice for families and businesses. The government is investing 500 million in low emission vehicles over the next 5 years, including in chargepoints such as those at the striking location of the Eden Project.

The new rapid chargepoint network continues our commitment to improving journeys in the south west, with a record investment in roads. This is part of our long-term economic plan to improve transport infrastructure and support jobs and opportunities in this beautiful area.

The minister also visited the new Truro Park and Ride Eastern Site, a 9.6 million facility, backed by the governments Regional Growth Fund. The new stop-off point will improve bus links for passengers and connections to surrounding areas, as well as helping to reduce the number of cars on the roads.

During the 2 day visit, the minister saw how 12.3 million of government money is easing congestion at one of Cornwalls pinch points when he went to see a completed new section of the A391 - a key route linking St Austell to the A30. He then opened a new green bridge over the road which will give walkers and cyclists easier, safer access to the famous Clay Trails.

The minister also saw the progress being made on the A30 Temple and Higher Carblake improvement scheme, which will provide a dual carriageway between Exeter and Truro. The 60 million project is being delivered jointly by Highways England and Cornwall County Council.

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