ICE’s Director General Nick Baveystock, said:“The Government has rightly acknowledged the flood risk from surface water in its revised assessment of England’s long-term funding needs, meaning projects to alleviate this risk will now also get a share of Government money – and I also commend it for acting swiftly in allocating the £2.3bn announced earlier this year to vital flood schemes around the country.
“We should understand however, that Government only part funds these schemes. Local Authorities are under increased pressure to generate the additional investment from other sources, or plug the gap from their own already stretched budgets, in order to provide the necessary flood protection.
“Disappointingly, maintenance funding will also still be allocated annually. One-off cash injections to repair defences following severe storms are welcome, but flooding is not a one-off event, it is a long-term challenge and we would like to see an investment programme which complements the 6 year capital commitment.”
The announcement was made part of the launch of the National Infrastructure Plan which was held at the ICE’s Westminster HQ. Speaking about the Plan Nick said:
“The National Infrastructure Plan is a vehicle for improved visibility and stability for industry, enabling earlier planning and investment in developing the UK’s skills and capacity. To retain confidence, the NIP must continue to evolve, and I am pleased therefore to see a 5th iteration.
“Government should build on this further as we move towards the General Election, with the focus of the plan continuing to move towards delivery. The more projects we see that are packaged up with clear funding streams and ‘shovel-ready’, the better the industry can help generate long-term economic growth. Investors and industry will also need to see consistent commitment from all political parties.”
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