Civils contractors today welcomed the announcement of major investment in the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor, including plans to bring forward a major brownfield development at Cambridge East, to deliver more than 10,000 homes and new employment space.
Commenting, Director of Policy & Public Affairs for the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Ben Goodwin said: “CECA welcomes today’s announcement as a clear statement of intent on the delivery of growth, housing and infrastructure across the Oxford to Cambridge corridor.
“Unlocking a major brownfield site such as Cambridge East will bring long-term economic growth in to one of the UK’s most important innovation regions.
“But ambition at this scale will only be realised if infrastructure is planned, funded and delivered from the outset. New communities need transport links, utilities, water and energy networks, digital connectivity, public realm, schools, health facilities and wider enabling works to be delivered in step with housing and commercial development.
“The commitment to a Greater Cambridge Development Corporation, alongside investment linked to East West Rail and Bletchley station, recognises that growth depends on coordination, certainty and long-term delivery capacity.
“For the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor to fulfil its potential the infrastructure schemes required to support that growth must be brought forward to market without delay, with the construction supply chain engaged early and effectively.
“Industry will need a clear forward pipeline, early engagement, proportionate risk allocation, and sustained confidence that projects will move from announcement to delivery.”
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