News – Page 11

With the long-awaited reopening of Broad Marsh Car Park and Bus Station on course for the autumn, Nottingham City Council can reveal the new building will host the largest number of electric vehicle charge points in one location in the whole of the UK.

Work to install the 81 charge points – including in Blue Badge disabled parking bays – is nearing completion, along with a host of other smart technology that will make customer journeys easier and significantly reduce the site’s carbon footprint.

Councillor Sally Longford, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Energy and Environment, said: “As a council we’ve been at the forefront of embracing new electric vehicle technology, including supporting the transition to cleaner taxis, electric and biogas buses and trams, and converting our own fleet.

“While walking, cycling and using public transport remain the greenest ways to travel, we recognise there are times when a car is the most convenient option. That’s why we’ve encouraged the switch to electric vehicles, which are far kinder to the environment, including developing a regional network of more than 400 charge points in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

In addition to the charge points, which will be operated by bp pulse, sustainability measures at the car park and bus station include:

·       A vehicle management system which consists of electronic signs and lights showing available parking spaces, reducing vehicle movements and congestion

·       Sensor controlled safety doors to the bus concourse. Doors will only open and close when the bus is in the bay, ensuring passenger safety, helping to retain a warm waiting area, and reducing exposure to fumes

·       An installation of 720 solar panels on the roof, providing renewable electrical energy to power the car park and bus station

·       Sensor controlled ventilation system which adapts with the car park ventilation requirements, removing harmful fumes

·       Charging infrastructure for buses to cater for future requirements

·       Highly intelligent and energy efficient lighting

·       Energy Performance Certificate ‘A’ rated

·       ‘A’ rated efficient boilers

·       Use of highly recyclable materials, including steel, concrete and glass

·       Use of long life and low maintenance materials for the deck coatings and bus station

·       Changes taking place around the new building will create new pedestrianised spaces and introduce bus-only sections of road by moving traffic away from the city centre, as well as increasing planting and greenery in the area.