Government asked to clarify plans for infrastructure body

Proposals for “Infrastructure UK” were set out in June this year and they was met with enthusiasm in the construction industry. CECA has now asked the Government to publish proposals for Infrastructure UK and to set out long term plans for investment in infrastructure.

In the letter, CECA National Director Rosemary Beales said:

“CECA has welcomed the recent reforms to the planning system that come into effect with the new National Policy Statements and the establishment of the Infrastructure Planning Commission. We take the view that these are not only important in the context of the provision of new energy infrastructure but also significant steps towards setting out long term plans for investment in all infrastructure sectors.

“The establishment of a body with a remit to “identify the country’s long term infrastructure needs over a 5 to 50 year horizon, take stock of what existing plans are likely to deliver in the long term, and assess where more could be done” is a major and fundamental step in that direction.

“Such long term plans would, we believe, enable contractors to provide their clients with value for money over the whole life of the assets they construct and maintain and, on occasions, operate. It would provide the industry with the necessary visibility if it is to invest in the skills and training, technology and innovation that will enhance the delivery of investment in the infrastructure which will be key to the economic recovery.  Long terms plans also provide greater scope for environmental management and for the development of infrastructure that is part of the solution to climate change.

“We are aware that Command Paper 7654 stated that full details of Infrastructure UK, including a Chair, would be announced in time for the Pre Budget Report, and we urge the Government to stick to this promise and publish these details without delay.”

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