In the UK, there were more than 1.3 million electric vehicles as of the end of November 2024, and this number is expected to increase significantly over the ensuing ten years. In order to satisfy electric vehicle drivers and assure the sustainability of car parks in the future, it is increasingly crucial that parking lots provide electric vehicle charging stations within their complexes.
The UK is expected to have between 8–11 million hybrid or electric vehicles by 2030, and 25.5 million by 2040. The National Energy System Operator (NESO) estimates that there could be up to 37.4 million EVs on UK roads by 2050. Leeds has become one of the leaders of the eco-friendly parking plan within the UK, as they have implemented a large number of electric vehicle parking bays around the city to further influence the use of electric cars in the country.
So, what is the best electric vehicle parking in Leeds? This guide will enlighten you as to where you can park in the city if you have an electric vehicle.
The Best Places for Electric Vehicle Charging in Leeds
Victoria Leeds Car Park
The Victoria Leeds Car Park is the best place for electric vehicle parking due to the location of the complex, which is situated directly next to the Victoria Leeds shopping centre. This is home to some of the best retail stores in the city, such as John Lewis and Rolex. There are 16 electric vehicle charging bays in the car park and this number is set to increase within the next decade. Solar powered carports are also located at the Victoria Leeds shopping centre.
University of Leeds Multi-Storey
University students, guests and members of the public can use the University of Leeds multi-storey car park. Public parking runs from 5pm – 7am on weekdays, all day on weekends and bank holidays. Even when the University is closed during off seasons, it’s still open for parking. It’s the perfect location to park for travelling to Leeds for a day out.
Colton Retail Park
Having electric vehicles in a retail park is very ideal, as it places you near numerous amenities. At the Colton Retail Park, there is a Sainsbury’s, B&M, Pets at Home, Poundstretcher and Argos. The 124,260 sq ft space has multiple electric vehicle parking bays for motorists to utilise at any time of the day.
Kirkstall Leisure Centre
The Kirkstall Leisure Centre is home to a 25m swimming pool, gymnastics hall, 4 squash courts and many other activities, which makes it the perfect place for sports enthusiasts. Those that have an electric vehicle are in luck, as there are 1 device and 3 connectors located at the leisure centre.
Plantation Services
The Asda Plantation Services in Leeds has 2 devices and 4 connectors available at this charging location. They are all part of the ChargePoint network who operate the largest online network of independently owned EV charging stations. Pricing does vary at the CharePoint locations, but here they are fixed at 65p/kWh. You can find a lot of things near this charging point, including everything you need for automotive care.
Elland Road Park & Ride
Located adjacent to the Leeds United football stadium, Elland Road, is the 800 space Park and Ride which offers 1 device and 2 connectors to motorists wanting to charge their electric vehicle. It’s the perfect solution for those who are wanting to go watch their beloved Leeds United take the field and their favourite players shine. It is powered by Blink who are one of the leading electric vehicle charging suppliers in the UK.
Trinity Leeds Car Park
Trinity Leeds has 630 spaces including 13 electric charging bays for EV vehicle owners to use for parking and charging needs. You have great access to the Trinity Leeds shopping centre from this location, so you can shop for all your basic needs. It’s also close to the city centre, so you can charge your vehicle while exploring the great city of Leeds.
Crowne Plaza Leeds
The popular hotel range Crowne Plaza is very big on electric vehicle charging. The hotel has 102 on site parking spaces and charges are £17.50 per 24 hours, with four of those being electric vehicle parking points within their car park. Located just down the road from the city centre, these EV charging bays are perfectly located not just for hotel guests but for anybody looking to explore the city.
Installing Your Own Charging Point
We understand that searching for your nearest electric vehicle charging point can sometimes be inconvenient. If this is the case, you could opt for installing your own charging point outside your own home for ultimate convenience. This has to be on off-street parking so that you aren’t hindering any surrounding area. If you are unsure regarding the rules about the installation of EV chargers on private land, you should contact the landlord or management company of the site.