Civils contractors today welcomed the construction and infrastructure commitments set out in the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy, highlighting the importance of long-term investment and streamlined planning processes in delivering economic growth across the UK.
Published today by the Department for Business and Trade, the Industrial Strategy sets out a long-term vision to boost productivity and support regional prosperity.
CECA has strongly endorsed the Strategy’s recognition of infrastructure as a key driver of economic development and social cohesion.
Commenting on the publication, Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) spokesperson Lorraine Gregory, Director of CECA Midlands, said:
“CECA members will be pleased to see infrastructure placed at the heart of the Government’s plans to build a more productive, balanced and future-ready economy.
“The Industrial Strategy’s focus on long-term investment, enhanced digital and transport connectivity, and the reform of planning processes, aligns closely with CECA’s long-standing calls for a more strategic and joined-up approach to infrastructure delivery.
“We particularly welcome the commitment to create a more efficient and responsive planning system, as well as the Government’s emphasis on skills development and innovation – both of which are essential to meeting future construction demand.
“For our members, the Strategy provides renewed confidence that Government understands the fundamental role civil engineering contractors will play in unlocking opportunity, improving resilience, and delivering sustainable growth across all regions of the UK.
“We welcome the Government’s recognition of the need to reduce delays and complexity in infrastructure planning and delivery, and we are looking forward to the publication of the infrastructure pipeline digital platform next month, which will provide much-needed visibility for industry, and allow our members to plan with confidence in delivering the UK Government’s infrastructure agenda.”
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