Responses from the Rail Industry continue after yesterday's Government Spending Review in the House of Commons
Chris Ball, President – UK & Ireland, AtkinsRéalis, said:
“There is much to welcome in the Spending Review, including further investment in vital transport links, affordable homes and new nuclear, and a strong desire to shift swiftly into project delivery phase to unlock opportunities and deliver place-based growth.
“We also support the objectives that sit behind the investment plans published by Government. Infrastructure investment has always been a catalyst for growth and opportunity, but the funding plans today support a clear mission: improve regional connectivity, strengthen energy security, accelerate the build rate of affordable homes and boost socio-economic opportunities.
“Many of the funding decisions made today will kickstart growth and underpin broader programmes of renewal, including the trailblazer investment deals, and we welcome the Green Book Review towards place-based business cases that articulate the full economic value of a far broader array of projects.
“Private finance will be pivotal in funding new homes, new transport links, city regeneration programmes and critical national infrastructure. Attracting this investment relies on stability, certainty and credibility of plans. A shift towards a streamlined planning system will support this, alongside the long-term certainty that the impending Infrastructure and Industrial Strategies should provide, and the frameworks to fund and structure projects effectively. There is also a clear role for industry to help create viable plans for deliverable projects, building a better business case that delivers the right outcomes for all parties.
“The UK is laying the building blocks to unlock rapid, efficient and inclusive growth in communities across the country, and we stand ready to support the delivery of projects across the UK to turn this ambition into action.”
Jonathan Willcock, managing director of transportation at Costain, said: “The Chancellor’s confirmation of additional, long-term investment into the UK’s public transport infrastructure has the potential to transform communities including in the North of England, Midlands and Wales. Improving transportation infrastructure is not just about connecting people and places, it’s about creating a sustainable future that drives economic prosperity, productivity, and economic growth, building much-needed resilience into the network and improving people’s lives.
“Recognising the continued importance of the nation’s capital, confirmation of a long-term funding agreement for Transport for London will be welcome news to the industry and wider supply chain. The settlement provides much needed clarity that will help it plan, invest, innovate and develop the skills that will be needed to deliver critical infrastructure improvements and modernise London’s transport network.
“We know from working on complex transportation projects that robust planning and early contractor involvement will be vital in ensuring these crucial projects are delivered on time, on budget and with minimal day-to-day disruption. We’re looking forward to bringing our skills, experience and expertise to support our customers in the delivery of this critical national infrastructure.”
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