ICE briefing paper: paying for Britain’s infrastructure system – alternative options

The ICE has launched a Next Steps policy programme to explore how the UK government can engage the private sector to increase infrastructure investment.

The government is conducting a multi-year spending review that will conclude in spring 2025. It will determine capital allocations for a minimum of three years.

The government urgently needs to build, fix and upgrade the UK’s transport, water and energy systems, following decades of underinvestment.

With limited public finances, the government has indicated it’s interested in proposals that leverage private finance and reduce spending on the public balance sheet.

But there’s strong global competition for investment and many investors see UK infrastructure as too high risk.

We want to hear from you

Through its Next Steps programmes, the ICE convenes global public debates to discuss what needs to happen next on key policy issues affecting civil engineering and society.

Attend the panel debate

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to private finance.

The ICE is looking for views on existing and alternative models that could help the UK government increase private sector investment and deliver the services the public needs.

This briefing paper provides a starting point for discussion.

The ICE wants to hear responses from infrastructure professionals and other experts on the issues set out in the paper.

In particular, we want to hear responses to the following questions:

• What are the alternative options available that would minimise the requirement for public sector investment?
• How best should private finance be engaged?
• What requirements and/or stipulations for programme management could be mandated by the Treasury to improve cost controls in delivery?

Please contact [email protected] by Friday 6 December to share your views.

This insight will inform an updated briefing paper to be published in the new year.