Engineers Urge New Government To Invest In Infrastructure
29th July, 2010
The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) South West has urged the new coalition government to maintain investment in much-needed infrastructure projects.
Although public spending cuts were widely mentioned during the General Election campaign, ICE South West has said the government must find a way of funding the schemes that will deliver long-term social, economic and environmental benefits.
ICE South West says major regional projects – including the Severn Barrage tidal project – must not be left to flounder.
It believes the creation of a UK National Infrastructure Investment Bank to attract large volumes of private capital will help plug holes if public funding is not immediately available.
ICE, along with business groups in the region, also wants to see the upgrading of the A303, one of the main routes into the South West.
Professor Colin Taylor, Chairman of ICE South West, said: “The campaigning is now over, the votes have been cast and we have a new government. Now, engineers and politicians must roll their sleeves up and get down to work together.
“During the election campaign, we reminded all the parties how imperative it was that they invest in transport, energy, waste, flooding and water infrastructure, despite current financial restraints.
“We must have the capital in place to deliver this infrastructure, which is essential for our sustainable future.”
ICE also wants a fair and efficient planning system to ensure vital infrastructure projects can proceed without unnecessary delay.
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