Highways industry responds to Chancellor’s speech

Yesterday’s Chancellor’s speech on Government plans for long-term economic growth included a range of commitments on infrastructure. Several senior and prominent figures from the highways sector have issued their responses and a selection of them are included below.

Ian Edwards, President and CEO of AtkinsRéalis who was present in Oxfordshire for Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ speech on kickstarting economic growth, said: “We welcome the decisive action being taken to remove barriers to infrastructure delivery and provide the long-term certainty needed to secure investment into the UK and create the supply chains that will deliver sustainable development across the country.

“Infrastructure investment can be the catalyst for social opportunities and economic growth in every corner in the UK: the faster infrastructure programmes can pass through planning into delivery, the sooner their
full impact on the economy will be felt. Today’s announcements reinforce this, like the support for nationally
significant projects like Heathrow expansion, Sizewell C and Lower Thames Crossing alongside progress to build regional project pipelines.

“We look forward to supporting this new phase of infrastructure development, from delivering place-led growth through regional regeneration to the vital infrastructure projects that will power homes and business, connect communities and boost jobs, skills and innovation across the country.”

Deputy Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission, Julia Prescot, commented: “The Chancellor’s speech recognises that half measures on infrastructure will no longer cut the mustard. Accelerating investment in line with the Commission’s existing recommendations is essential: the government’s
ten-year strategy in June, and its planning bill, must now give investors and contractors a clear picture of what happens next so they can invest in their skills and supply chains in anticipation.

“The green light to unleash the Oxford to Cambridge corridor’s full economic potential is welcome after a number of false starts and I’m pleased the government’s ambition matches the scale of transformation we
envisaged in our original report in 2017. It is essential that the transport, water and housing constraints on economic growth in one of the UK’s most productive areas are removed, and filling in the gaps on East West Rail, improving strategic roads and concerted action to secure the region’s water supplies are significant steps forward. The government’s compelling vision for the corridor must now be turned into a comprehensive economic plan.

“The government’s readiness to consider private finance options for the Lower Thames Crossing is also important; the Thames has been a pinch-point on our national road network for too long and a barrier to trade, so anything that helps get this project delivered as early as possible will be a boon for businesses across the country.”

In response to Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ speech, Thomas Knight, transport market lead for UK and Europe at Mott MacDonald, expressed strong support for the government’s continued commitment to key transport and infrastructure projects across the country.

Thomas said: “The Chancellor’s announcement is an important step forward in providing clarity about key investment decisions which will drive economic growth and improve connectivity across the UK. Mention of
crucial projects such as East West Rail, West Yorkshire Mass Transit, and the A428; which we are proudly helping to plan and deliver, demonstrates the government’s understanding of the need for infrastructure investment to support growth. These schemes are vital for improving regional connectivity, reducing congestion, and supporting sustainable development.

“The government presenting a clear path from planning to delivery with commitment to cutting down red tape will mean these projects can be delivered more quickly, while still prioritising community and environmental needs. The Chancellor’s support for a third runway at Heathrow Airport and investing in new and upgraded airport facilities in Doncaster and Manchester is also encouraging. It is essential that new airport infrastructure is built and operated in line with the Government’s Airport National Policy Statement (ANPS) and the associated environmental, noise and sustainability obligations. Mott MacDonald continues to work with Heathrow Airport to deliver these obligations, including carbon reduction ambitions. We look forward to supporting Heathrow and the UK government in addressing these challenges through a review of the current ANPS.

“By prioritising infrastructure projects, the government is demonstrating a clear commitment to creating a more connected, resilient and sustainable future. We’re pleased to continue our collaboration with the government and other stakeholders to deliver these transformative projects that will benefit communities across the country.”

Alison Edwards, Director of Policy and External Affairs at the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT), added: “CPT welcomes the Chancellor’s commitment to significant infrastructure investments, which are essential for driving economic growth and strengthening the UK’s connectivity.

“It’s fantastic to see the Government prioritising long-term development, and there is a real opportunity to maximise the impact of these plans by investing in the nation’s most-used form of public transport: buses.

“Carrying 11 million passengers every day, buses help people access jobs, education, and local businesses while delivering a remarkable £4.55 return for every £1 invested. By ensuring buses receive the funding they need alongside other infrastructure priorities at the upcoming Spending Review, the Government can supercharge its growth ambitions – boosting local economies, breaking down barriers to opportunity, and improving public health and the environment.”

Finally, Cllr Louise Gittins, Chair of the Local Government Association said: “National economic growth can only be achieved if every local economy is firing on all cylinders. Councils have a critical and unique role in delivering local growth across all sectors and communities and are already driving growth – working with businesses, supporting jobseekers, planning regeneration, and improving infrastructure.

“Government investment in our places and people is therefore key to supporting long term sustainable, inclusive economic growth which brings increased prosperity to every part of the country.”

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