Issue - meetings

The Berkshire LEP Chief Executive introduced a report on the park and ride element of Phase 2 of the Slough MRT scheme and the conclusion of work by consultants on behalf of the LEP and Slough Borough Council, on an alternative proposal for an Energy Hub on the site.

The background to the scheme was summarised.  It was noted there had been two elements, an MRT scheme and park & ride.  The MRT scheme was close to completion, however, it had become clear over the past two years that the park & ride element was not viable, partly due to changing circumstances including Heathrow airport expansion not proceeding at this time and similarly regeneration plans for Slough town centre being delayed.   An alternative option of developing an electric vehicle and hydrogen hub was assessed and a summary of the conclusions were explained.

The overall position was that there was a potentially good scheme with a case for an energy hub but that the EV element should be able to be delivered by the market and that the hydrogen hub element carried significant risks in relation to timing and the use of public funds.  There were also planning policy issues for the site, which was in the green belt.  It was therefore recommended that the c. £5m did not continue to be allocated to the scheme and the BLTB should consider other ways to utilise the funding.  After due consideration, this recommendation was agreed.

Resolved –

(a)  That the report on the viability of the park and ride element of the 2.34 Slough MRT Phase 2 project  and associated reduced funding allocation be noted and that it be agreed that this element of the scheme not be proceeded with.

(b)  That the report on the assessment of an EV and Hydrogen Hub carried out by UK Power Network Services be noted.

(c)  That it be agreed that the c.£5m previously allocated to the park and ride scheme be withdrawn, noting that the cost of the UK Power Network Services work and development costs for the park and ride needed to be included within the overall project costs.