ICE comment on spring budget

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

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