Decision details

To consider amendments to the previously agreed Heads of Terms

The Assistant Director Environmental Services submitted an exempt report, which, following the recommendations approved by the Chief Executive using urgent action on 6 April 2020, and subsequently endorsed by Executive, updated Executive of progress with the park and charge project and sought approval for changes to the original approved Heads of Terms (HoT’s) approved following progression of commercial negotiations with project partners.

Resolved

(1)           That the progress made be noted.

(2)           That authority be delegated to the Assistant Director Environmental Services in consultation with Assistant Director: Property, Investment and Contract Management, Director: Law and Governance and the Lead Member for Clean and Green, to conclude legal agreements with the proposed Charge Point Operator and utility companies providing electricity to charge points based in principle on the revised Heads of Terms (HoTs) set out in the exempt annex to the Minutes (as set out in the Minute Book).

(3)           As set out in the exempt minutes.

Reasons

The Park and Charge project offers the council an investment via private capital to develop needed EV charging infrastructure within our car parks for predominantly residents who have no off road parking, but also for visitors and commuters. Additionally the council is receiving a revenue contribution to fund these commercial negotiations, and involvement in a countywide EV communication and education package for residents. 

Alternative options

Option 1: Do Nothing

The Council could seek to close negotiations and not pursue this opportunity. If the Council was to install EV charging in the car parks, alternative conditions are unlikely to be as favourable in terms of the length or terms of the contracts.

Option 2: Reject the proposals and seek to renegotiate conditions

The Covid-19 impact upon the timescales of the project have resulted in a challenged schedule in order to meet the required progress from the funder Innovate UK. As a result if the recommendations are not approved there is a risk that the pilot car park installation and project progression will not happen to the funders satisfaction and subsequently the project could collapse.