Chancellor George Osborne set out clearly how departmental resources will be driven by the goal of spreading economic power and wealth through a "devolution revolution" and "investment in infrastructure" as he delivered his joint Spending Review and Autumn Statement. A move that ICE Director General Nick Baveystock (pictured) says provides a strong platform for the next five years.
“The Chancellor’s commitment to capital investment for new infrastructure projects - combined with the drive to increase devolution, innovation and apprenticeships - provides a strong platform for the next five years. The recently established Infrastructure Commission will also ensure that plans for new infrastructure are based on unbiased analysis of our needs.
“We hope to see the same level of commitment from Government in maintaining our existing infrastructure – we await more detail on how the cuts to operational budgets will affect funding for the upkeep of flood defences and local roads. We must maintain a balance between capital and maintenance budgets if we are to deliver infrastructure that gives the right level of service and connectivity, operates effectively for as long as possible, and helps to support a prosperous economy.”
ICE's recommendation to 'avoid cuts to capital programmes in strategic transport and flooding' appeared to have been heard, as the Spending Review contained no significant capital spending cuts that affect UK infrastructure.
The Chancellor also announced an additional £12bn for capital investments in infrastructure, a figure which ICE will be analysing closely over the coming weeks.
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