The community can have their say on a proposal by NRMA to install an electric vehicle (EV) charging facility at the Nuriootpa Soldiers Memorial Hall.
NRMA approached The Barossa Council earlier this year to explore potential Council sites in the vicinity of Nuriootpa, after establishing its first site at the Barossa Visitor Centre in Tanunda in 2020.
Under the proposal, infrastructure would be installed in the public carpark at the rear of the Soldiers Memorial Hall to enable up to four vehicles to charge simultaneously.
The site is the NRMA's preferred location because of its proximity to the highway and local amenities, including public toilets and shops.
The 4 bay DC fast chargers would be sited in the central aisle of the car park, occupying four existing car parks and one shared alighting space, resulting in the loss of one car park.
A battery energy storage system is also proposed in the south-western corner of the site and will result in minor relocation of four existing car parks.
The community is invited to comment on the proposal between 23 August and 13 September 2023, with information available at barossa.sa.gov.au
Barossa Mayor Bim Lange said given recent growth in the electric vehicle market, Council is receptive to infrastructure that makes regional travel viable and supports visitation to the Barossa.
"For many people, the availability of EV charging bays can influence how they travel," Mayor Lange said.
"It's important that we explore opportunities that will enable motorists to plan a visit to our region with confidence, even if they are on a long-haul trip."
The facility would form part of the national EV charging network being proposed by NRMA in partnership with the Commonwealth Government.
NRMA is proposing a license agreement to occupy the site, and will be responsible for associated costs.
If no objections are received during community consultation, Council will go ahead with the necessary licensing arrangements.
