REMOVAL of the Evie Networks Electric Vehicle (EV) charging station from its present site was again on the agenda for the Southern Grampians Shire Council’s (SGSC) latest ordinary meeting at Coleraine on Wednesday night.

Council resolved at Wednesday night’s March meeting to relocate the unit to the Visitor Information Centre (VIC) at a cost of $25,000 and to have the existing site decommissioned.

Council have requested that EVIE remove the current unit before ANZAC day 2024.

Cr Mary-Ann Brown acknowledged that there were matters that had arisen from the placement of the EV station, especially around consultation, that Council could learn from and congratulated Hamilton RSL on their passionate advocacy on the matter.

“Council did pass a motion last year … so this is really just a follow up,” Cr Brown said.

“There’s been significant discussion. This is actually closing off the item. We need to deal with it.”

However, concerning the costs of moving the EV station Cr Bruach Colliton spoke against SGSC committing to what he believed was unnecessary expenditure, having spoken earlier against funding a detailed design plan for the CBD’s streetscape.

Likewise, he argued that the EV station should remain where it was to avoid costs.

“The cost of (moving the EV station) $25,000 is unnecessary expenditure of ratepayers’ funds,” Cr Colliton said.

“I want to highlight the positives of where it is and why it should remain.

“The current location is on a major tourist highway and designated as a tourist stop (in a) community park.

“It’s not a sacred site controlled by the RSL or any other minority in our community.”

Hamilton RSL president Graham Mustow said the RSL was pleased that Council had approved plans (to move the EV station).

 “We are pleased the plans are going ahead but are just a little disappointed it is taking so long,” he said.

SGSC mayor Cr David Robertson said he was pleased an outcome had been reached.

“Having the EV charger at the VIC will have the benefit of enabling visitors to learn more about what’s on offer in the region and be in walking distance to Hamilton’s shops and public facilities whilst waiting for their car to charge,” he said.

“Council is pleased to have reached the final decision and look forward to the community and visitors alike being able to use this EV charger in Hamilton.”

The installation of EV chargers in Hamilton and Dunkeld demonstrated Council’s commitment to sustainability in providing greater access to charging equipment across the Southern Grampians Shire.