A new electric vehicle rapid charger unit has been installed in the main Castle car park in Llandovery.

Funded by Carmarthenshire County Council, it is currently one of only three such installations in the County.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Transport planner Thomas Evans said: “With the increasing number of electric vehicles being sold and national policies set to increase uptake further, it is important we work towards and support the introduction of more charging points across the County.

To this end we have worked with Silverstone Green Energy Ltd to install a 50Kw Rapid Charger at Castle Car Park in Llandovery with the ability to charge most current EV’s up to 80 per cent in 30 to 60 minutes.

“We see this as a way to attract visitors to stop and visit Llandovery whilst also helping to future proof Carmarthenshire’s transport network".

County Councillor Handel Davies added: “The future of transport is electric.

“Electric vehicles are already commonplace being very cheap to run requiring less maintenance and they are also better for the planet.

“It is pleasing that our local authority has had the foresight to recognise the importance of placing a rapid charger in Llandovery with over a million vehicle journeys annually travelling through the town.

“As has already been evidenced this will undoubtedly help to boost the local economy through enticing tourists to stop and spend time to discover, appreciate and explore this beautiful part of Wales”.

The charger has already been welcomed by the community.

One resident who has used the charging point said: “We used this charger the other day and it made the journey down on holiday very easy indeed.

“It is an easy to use charger, right next to a good park for our daughter.

“We had a quick look round the castle next door and had lunch at the Penygawse Tea Rooms as well.

“We wouldn't have stopped at all if it wasn't here. Thanks very much to all involved.”