The Portfolio Holder Decision Meeting of Harrow Council, held on Thursday 23 April 2026, approved the award of a contract for the installation of rapid and ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging points across the borough. The meeting also noted that the previously approved procurement route had been superseded by a new competitive process.

Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure

The council has approved the award of a contract to Zest ECO Ltd for the procurement and installation of rapid and ultra-rapid EV charging points at various council-controlled locations in Harrow. This decision supports the council's commitment to decarbonising travel and aligns with its adopted Electric Vehicle Strategy.

The procurement process, which had previously used a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), was superseded by a new competitive tender. Following a discussion that involved confidential legal advice and tender evaluation reports, the decision was made to award the contract to Zest ECO Ltd. The Strategic Director of Culture, Environment and Economy has been authorised to finalise and execute the contract, with the flexibility to award to an alternative supplier if Zest ECO Ltd is unable to proceed. This authority also extends to making future decisions necessary for the implementation of the charging points, including potential changes to proposed locations.

The report presented to the Leader of the Council, Councillor Paul Osborn, highlighted that Zest ECO Ltd will be responsible for the purchase and installation costs of 5 ultra-rapid and 16 rapid EV charging points, with an estimated completion date of August 2027. The capital expenditure is projected at £2.530 million, which will be fully funded by Zest ECO Ltd. The council will receive a 14% share of the revenue generated from the use of these charging points, estimated to be around £5.371 million over the 15-year contract duration.

The council's existing EV charging infrastructure, established since 2018, includes 355 charge points, comprising slow, fast, and rapid chargers. This new initiative aims to further expand this network to support residents and businesses in their transition to electric vehicles. The decision is expected to contribute to a lower carbon borough, improve air quality, and enhance public health outcomes, aligning with the council's priorities of Restoring Pride in Harrow and delivering a cleaner, safer environment.

The meeting noted that no declarations of interest were made, and no petitions or public questions were received. The press and public were temporarily excluded from the meeting to discuss confidential appendices related to legal advice and tender evaluations, as permitted under Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972.