The Blackburn with Darwen Council meeting on 14 June 2024 focused on the award of a contract for an Electric Vehicle (EV) pilot site and the approval of a new community centre in Mill Hill. The council decided to award the Charge Point Operator (CPO) contract to BP Pulse and approved the construction of the Mill Hill Community Centre.

Award of Charge Point Operator (CPO) to the Electric Vehicle (EV) Pilot Site Contract

The council discussed the Award of Charge Point Operator (CPO) to the Electric Vehicle (EV) Pilot Site Contract. The contract was awarded to BP Pulse, a leading provider of EV charging infrastructure. The decision was made to support the council's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transport options.

Councillors debated the merits of BP Pulse's proposal, which included the installation of multiple charging points across key locations in Blackburn and Darwen. Proponents highlighted the company's extensive experience and the potential for increased EV adoption in the area. One councillor noted, BP Pulse's track record in delivering reliable and accessible charging infrastructure makes them an ideal partner for this initiative.

Opponents raised concerns about the long-term financial implications and the need for ongoing maintenance. However, the majority of councillors agreed that the environmental benefits and alignment with the council's Climate Emergency Action Plan outweighed these concerns.

Approval of Mill Hill Community Centre

The council approved the construction of a new community centre in Mill Hill. The centre aims to provide a hub for local residents, offering various services and activities to enhance community cohesion and well-being.

The proposal received widespread support from councillors, who emphasised the positive impact on the local community. One councillor remarked, The new community centre will be a vital resource for Mill Hill, providing much-needed facilities and fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

Funding for the project will come from a combination of council resources and external grants. The council's decision aligns with its commitment to improving community infrastructure and supporting local development initiatives.

Other Discussions

Other topics discussed during the meeting included updates on ongoing infrastructure projects and a review of the council's financial performance for the previous quarter. These discussions were brief and did not result in any significant decisions.

For more details, you can refer to the Printed minutes and the Public reports pack from the meeting.