The Institution of Civil Engineers North East (ICE) has published a report calling for joint public and private sector action to ensure future transport funding for the region is used effectively to support economic recovery.
A “mature debate” is required regarding the North East’s transport priorities beyond 2015, argues ICE North East in its document ‘Growing It Alone: Supporting Economic Recovery through Transport Infrastructure’.
The report, compiled by ICE North East’s Expert Panel on Transport, is being sent to MPs, Local Enterprise Partnerships and other decision makers. A copy is available to download here >>
The report adds that “a clear consensus between the public and private sectors” must be reached, identifying a small number of high priorities for investment beyond 2015”.
Launching the report, Stephen Larkin, Director of ICE North East, said: “This debate must happen now, because the decisions on funding, rail franchises, infrastructure and much more will be taken within the next two years. The North East must speak with a clear, unified voice on a national level to get the best from transport policy and put the infrastructure in place for the benefit of the regional economy.
“This report highlights the need for the region to show the courage to prioritise and the conviction to deliver what is needed. ICE North East wants to be a part of that debate and has the expertise to make a real contribution, but we need the rest of the region to join the discussion and work toward highlighting these priorities and giving this region the strong voice it needs to be heard in the clamour for funding.”
The report says: “The two LEPs have a significant role to play in articulating and prioritising the necessary investment, as well as being the starting point for assembling the ‘local transport bodies’ to which DfT (Department for Transport) is seeking to devolve transport funding.
“ICE North East believes that the LEPs and/or the local transport bodies should seek clear, independent advice on the outcomes of investment options as well as an understanding of some of the delivery issues that have affected schemes in the past.”
Download report here >>