Lead Member: David Vasmer - Portfolio Holder for Highways and Environment

Lead Officer: Andy Wilde – Service Director – Infrastructure

REPORT TO FOLLOW

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.     Approved continued engagement with the Department for Transport (DfT) to draw down the LEVI Fund Capital and Capability funding.

2.     Approved the continued delivery of Shropshire’s LEVI Fund programme, including preparatory work for the necessary procurement.

3.     Delegated authority for all matters relating to the LEVI Fund to the Service Director for Infrastructure, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Highways & Environment / Transport & Economic Growth, enabling procurement and contracting with a suitable Charge Point Operator.

4.     Delegated authority for all matters relating to the EV Pavement Channels Grant to the Service Director for Infrastructure, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Highways & Environment / Transport & Economic Growth, enabling procurement and contracting with an appropriate hardware and installation provider.

In the absence of the Portfolio Holder for Highways & Environment, the Portfolio Holder for Transport & Economic Growth introduced the report which provided an update on the opportunities presented through central Government funding to deliver new electric vehicle (EV) charge points across the County, and to seek approval to pursue those opportunities utilising funding made available by Government.

Members discussed the pace of EV uptake, the importance of matching rollout to demand, and the need to learn from other authorities’ experience.

It was confirmed that site selection would involve consultation with local communities, town and parish councils, and use of mapping tools.

Issues raised included affordability, accessibility, equality impacts, grid capacity, pavement crossings, and ensuring infrastructure is located where it can be effectively used.

Cabinet noted the potential long?term income stream from concession arrangements and wider benefits for residents, visitors and air quality.

RESOLVED:

That Cabinet:

1.     Approved continued engagement with the Department for Transport (DfT) to draw down the LEVI Fund Capital and Capability funding.

2.     Approved the continued delivery of Shropshire’s LEVI Fund programme, including preparatory work for the necessary procurement.

3.     Delegated authority for all matters relating to the LEVI Fund to the Service Director for Infrastructure, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Highways & Environment / Transport & Economic Growth, enabling procurement and contracting with a suitable Charge Point Operator.

4.     Delegated authority for all matters relating to the EV Pavement Channels Grant to the Service Director for Infrastructure, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Highways & Environment / Transport & Economic Growth, enabling procurement and contracting with an appropriate hardware and installation provider.