To authorise the acceptance of a successful funding application to Highways England for the installation of three rapid electric vehicle charge points at three different locations along the A49 corridor.

This funding offer comprises two parts:

1.     Up to £22,000 of revenue funding to support the feasibility, site assessment and procurement costs

2.     Followed by 100% capital funding towards the installation of three rapid electric vehicle charge points. The indicative costs of installing three rapid charge points is estimated to be in the region of £150k, but will be confirmed through the feasibility, site assessment and procurement

That:

(a)       Highways England’s grant offer of £22,000 of revenue grant for the feasibility, site assessment and procurement of three rapid electric vehicle charge points be accepted; and

(b)       the Energy & Active Travel Manager be authorise to take all operational decisions necessary to implement the project in accordance with the grant conditions.

1                 Not to accept the funding, carry out the feasibility study or implement any recommended findings:

·        There is currently no other 100% funding available for the installation of rapid charge points in the UK. If the council chooses not to proceed this opportunity will be missed resulting in the council being unlikely to be able to fund the installation of rapid charge points in the county for the foreseeable future.  

·        The installation of rapid charge points will greatly improve the county provision for both local and visiting electric vehicle owners. Additional charging infrastructure for electric vehicles will also support the uptake of low carbon vehicles in the county, supporting the council’s target of decarbonisation and improved air quality.