Commenting on the publication of the Levelling Up White Paper, Chris Richards, Director of Policy at the Institution of Civil Engineers, said: "Today’s Levelling Up White Paper is a first step with some positive aspects such as an independent advisory council, continuation of long-term deals and a clear role for infrastructure carried over from the abandoned industrial strategy.
"However real substantial change will need consultation with those on the ground, looking at what the long-term challenges are so that sectors such as infrastructure know how to help. Embedding a true mandate, through consultation, from the public will be key to rising above ever-shifting political priorities and tackling some of the UK’s long-term issues.
"While there is still significant work to be done, the promise of transforming the levelling up missions into legislation is a step in the right direction."
