In response to the spring budget announced by chancellor Jeremy Hunt, Chris Richards, Director of Policy at the Institution of Civil Engineers said:
"Today’s budget presented key ambitions for the UK that would help the country reach its levelling up and net zero goal, but little certainty. Major financing decisions have been postponed until after the next general election and are therefore subject to change.
"The UK debate on infrastructure needs a reality check. There is global competition for talent, resources, and know-how. Delaying major programmes like HS2 won’t result in cost reduction. In fact, the UK's ability to deliver projects effectively may become more difficult as construction firms shift their focus to other countries. We hope to see more concrete commitments to net zero infrastructure in the updated net zero strategy later this month.
"Certainty on project pipelines, not delay, is what is needed to keep costs down."
Notes to editors
Please contact Maggie Eckel [email protected] for more information.
You may also be interested in
- Type
- Policy
ICE submission to the PAC inquiry on the government’s use of private finance for infrastructure
The ICE responds to a Public Accounts Committee inquiry on the role of private finance to help meet the UK’s infrastructure needs.
- Type
- Policy
ICE insights paper: enabling housing growth through infrastructure
This insights paper examines the links between infrastructure and sustainable housing growth.
- Type
- Infrastructure blog
Turning developments into communities: why integrate housing and infrastructure
A new ICE insights paper explores how planning and delivering housing and infrastructure together can maximise the benefits they offer to people, the environment and the economy.