Purpose

SYMCA acquired 2 First Bus Depots, Olive Grove and Leger Way (lease surrender) in March 2026 and simultaneously leased them back in order to continue operate the network. The lease back contained work package provisions for First Bus to act as SYMCA’s delivery agent for the installation of EV charging infrastructure and associated works. These works were specified by SYMCA and documented in a Development Agreement. First Bus took over the novated contract of the Design and consultant team to deliver the package of works. The total cost of acquisition and works are included in the Bus Franchising capital budget approved initially by the MCA and then in detail by the Bus Franchising Programme Board. SYMCA need to raise a purchase order for £48m to cover all costs for Olive Grove and Leger Way. This will tallow First Bus to instruct works and contract for the delivery and then invoice SYMCA for reimbursement on a monthly basis.
Olive Grove £32,485,000
Leger Way £15,515,000

Decision

To appoint First Bus to act as delivery agent for the electrification and associated works at Phase 1 depots, with an estimated total cost of £48m.

Alternative options considered

Option 1 – Issue purchase order to First Bus (recommended)
Raise a £48m purchase order to enable First Bus to act as delivery agent, instruct works, and recover costs monthly in line with the Development Agreement and approved budget.

Option 2 – SYMCA to contract directly with supply chain
Would require new procurement and contract arrangements, increasing delivery risk, resourcing requirements and causing delay.

Option 3 – Defer or phase the works
Would delay electrification and franchising readiness, with risk of cost escalation and misalignment with approved budgets.

Option 4 – Change delivery model / re-procure
Would require redesign and procurement of a new delivery approach, creating delay and risk to programme delivery.