Decision

RESOLVED

KEY DECISION

That the Executive:

a)            agree to provide grant funding up to £1.2million towards the purchase of ten electric buses and associated depot infrastructure as set out in section 5 of this report, subject to the receipt of detailed advice that the funding is in accordance with the Subsidy Control Act.

b)             delegate authority to the Executive Director of Place in consultation with the Executive Member for Highways and Travel to take such actions as necessary to enter into a funding agreement with the bus operator.

c)             authorise the Executive Director of Place, following consultation with Legal and Finance, to approve the execution and sealing of the funding agreement.

Reason for Recommendations – Utilisation of Government grant to improve bus services, increase bus patronage and lower carbon emissions in North Northamptonshire.

Alternative Options Considered – It was previously agreed to provide up to £1.8million towards eight electric buses and associated depot infrastructure for the Kettering – Rothwell – Desborough – Corby/Market Harborough corridor, but match funding is no longer available for that scheme until 2029/30. Options would include not spending the grant funding and allowing the Department for Transport to recoup it. The funding could be spent on other types of capital bus improvement such as bus stops or bus priority measures.