The National Infrastructure Commission (NIC) has today published its first-ever assessment of the UK, setting out the nation’s long-term strategic needs in transport, water, digital technologies, waste and energy.
The NIC’s spending plans include funding for projects including Crossrail 2 in London, and Northern Powerhouse Rail and recommends a major boost in funding for key cities with stable five-year budgets, starting in 2021. But it recommends Government delay support for more than one nuclear power station beyond Hinkley Point C before 2025.
The report also makes detailed recommendations relating to the funding and financing of our national infrastructure.
Commenting, Director of External Affairs for the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) Marie-Claude Hemming said: “CECA campaigned for many years for an infrastructure commission, to resolve the short-termism and lack of long-term strategy that has historically undermined the delivery of major infrastructure projects in the UK.
“We welcome the fact that today’s report starts to make this vision a reality.
“The Government has committed to lay the Assessment before Parliament and to respond to it in six months to a year detailing recommendations that have been agreed to, any further work required, and alternative proposals for if necessary.
“It is vital that Government addresses the recommendations of this report as soon as possible to ensure the UK thrives as a great place to do business, live and work.”
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Notes to editors
- The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) represents over 300 contractors of all sizes, covering approximately 80% of the civil engineering market in Great Britain. Our members build infrastructure that provides the basis for economic sustainability and quality of life in communities across the country.
- The NIC National Infrastructure Assessment is available to read here.