The Garioch Area Committee met on Tuesday 14 July 2026 to consider a proposal for a lease and licence arrangement for an Energy Hub. The meeting also included discussions on the Public Sector Equality Duty and the exclusion of the public and media from certain agenda items.

Public Sector Equality Duty

The committee was scheduled to consider and, if decided, adopt a resolution regarding the Public Sector Equality Duty. This duty, as outlined in section 149 of the Equality Act 2010¹, requires public bodies to have due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination, harassment, and victimisation; advance equality of opportunity; and foster good relations between people who share protected characteristics and those who do not. The committee was also to consider any Integrated Impact Assessment provided and take its contents into account when reaching decisions.

Proposal for Lease and Licence Arrangement - Energy Hub

A significant item scheduled for discussion was a proposal concerning an Energy Hub, which was to be considered with the press and public excluded. This item was designated as exempt under paragraphs 8 and 9 of Schedule 7A of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973², relating to expenditure and terms for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services. The report pack indicated that this discussion would involve details of expenditure to be incurred by the council under a contract for the acquisition of property or supply of goods or services, and the terms for such a contract.