Decision details

SYMCA has been working with Arup, Swarco and Northern PowerGrid to deliver the pantograph charging infrastructure at RTI. Unfortunately, delays to the implementation of a new substation at the interchange has meant that the pantographs are not yet in operation, and they are unlikely to be in operation until the end of this financial year (current forecast).

Rather than reduce service levels and provide a poorer service for customers, including reputational risk for SYMCA, Stagecoach have implemented an inefficient vehicle schedule to allow charging at the depot.

Stagecoach have provided details that without the pantograph chargers a number of buses have to be returned to depot. This requires additional staff time as a direct result of the delays to the SYMCA project. This report seeks approval to fund these additional costs.

The funding approval required for this revenue cost is £45,850.00 covering the additional costs until 31 August and all the cost through to 01 March 2025. Previous approvals of £17,000 (not part of this paper) take the final total approval value to £61,950.00.

Further background information due commercially sensitive information is redacted and included in the Transport Directorate Leadership Team approval papers dated 12 November 2024.

Recommendations approved. Total cost of awards is £45,850.00.

Previous approvals of £17,000 (not part of this paper) take the final total approval value to £61,950.00

4.1 Do nothing (not recommended) – do not fund the additional costs being incurred by Stagecoach as a result of the SYMCA capital project being delayed. This could risk reputational risk with Stagecoach, the DfT, partners and the public if Stagecoach revert to using some diesel buses or reduce services to accommodate the additional charging requirements.

4.2. Do something (recommended) – fund the additional costs as outlined, noting that further delays to implement the charges could require further funding. This maintains the current service levels and does not cause the impacts outlined in 4.1

4.3. Do most (not recommended) – approve a dedicated revenue funding stream to mitigate the impact of capital project delivery on public transport operations.