PLANS to replace four regular spaces in a Renfrew car park with two electric vehicle (EV) charging bays have been submitted to Renfrewshire Council.

Agent company JMS Planning and Development has requested planning permission for the proposed changes at the site in Glebe Street on behalf of Swarco Smart Charging.

If given the green light, the project would also include the introduction of an upstand, power unit, feeder pillar, bollards, signage and floodlight.

A cover letter from JMS, which was presented to the local authority as part of the application, explained the principle behind the suggested works.

It said: “There is a significant volume of policy supporting the proposed application, both at the local and national level.

“All of this policy seeks to presume in favour of electric vehicle charging and additional electric vehicle charging points in the council area. As such, the principle of the application is wholly supported by planning policy.

“The development will provide environmental benefits through the provision of the EV charging bays which will support measures that mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, including low carbon and renewable energy schemes.

“Moreover, in Scotland, permitted development rights support the installation of electric vehicle charging upstands and associated equipment in existing parking areas, provided certain criteria are met.

“While the proposal aligns with some of these criteria, others are not met. Nevertheless, the existence of these rights underscores nationwide support for the development of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.”

The letter, which was sent to the council last month, continued: “Overall, the proposal will bring significant enhancement to an existing car parking area supporting Renfrew town centre, ideally positioned to serve customers as well as local residents.

“The proposal will ensure that their needs and expectations are fully met.”

A decision will be made on the application at a later date.