The Portfolio Holder Decision Meeting of Harrow Council was scheduled to discuss proposals for the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging points across the borough. The meeting's agenda included a report detailing the procurement process and recommendations for awarding a contract for these facilities.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Rapid and Ultra Rapid Charging in Harrow

The meeting was scheduled to consider a report regarding the procurement of rapid and ultra rapid electric vehicle charging points at various council-controlled locations in Harrow. The report outlined the council's progress in installing EV charge points since 2018, with a total of 355 installed to date, including various types such as slow, fast, and rapid chargers. The report highlighted that the council has actively sought external funding for this infrastructure, including through national programmes like the Go Ultra Low City Scheme (GULCS) and the On-Street Residential Charge Point (ORCS) scheme.

The report recommended that the Leader of the Council, Councillor Paul Osborn, approve the award of a contract to Zest ECO Ltd for the provision of these charging points. This recommendation was made following a competitive tendering process, which involved a re-evaluation after queries from unsuccessful bidders. The report stated that the proposed contract would enable the council to support the transition to electric vehicles and contribute to the decarbonisation of travel in the borough, aligning with the aims of its adopted Electric Vehicle Strategy.

The report detailed that Zest ECO Ltd would be responsible for the purchase and installation costs of 5 ultra rapid and 16 rapid EV charging points, with an estimated capital expenditure of £2.530m, fully funded by the company. Zest ECO Ltd would also cover operational and maintenance costs, and collect income from users. The council is projected to receive a 14% share of the revenue generated, estimated to be around £5.371m over the 15-year contract duration.

The report also addressed potential risks, including project delays and community support, and noted that the procurement process was conducted in compliance with the Concessions Contract Regulations 2016 and the Council's Contract Procedure Rules. Legal implications were also outlined, referencing the Traffic Management Act 2004 and the London Local Authorities and Transport for London Act 2013, which grant the council powers to provide and operate charging apparatus for electric vehicles.

The report indicated that an Equalities Impact Assessment (EQIA) had been prepared for the long-term Transport Strategy, considering the impact of vehicle electrification on individuals with protected characteristics. Accessibility considerations for the mobility impaired were also to be addressed at the design stage of the rapid and ultra rapid charge points. The expansion of EV charging provision was presented as contributing to the council's vision of Restoring Pride in Harrow by fostering investment, improving health and air quality, and promoting green mobility.

The report was accompanied by confidential appendices concerning procurement and legal advice, which were exempt from public disclosure by virtue of paragraph 3 of Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, relating to information about the financial and business affairs of any particular person.