The Civil Engineering Contractors Association has published its recommendations to the incoming government to deliver the necessary infrastructure

In their recent policy document, ‘Priorities for a new UK Government’s first 100 days in office,’ CECA emphasises the importance of a robust infrastructure agenda to enhance the nation’s economic and social outcomes.

The briefing focuses on what CECA members need from a new government to give them the confidence to deliver new infrastructure.

Unblock projects paused in the General Election run-up

CECA’s top priority is the resumption of critical infrastructure projects paused during the election period.

Among the critical decisions postponed was the long-awaited planning decision for the next stage of the Lower Thames Crossing, originally expected by 20 June but now deferred until October by the current government.

Other essential infrastructure projects that the new government must decide on promptly include proposals for new terminals at London Luton Airport and the Port of Immingham.

CECA urge the new government to prioritise these projects to mitigate the adverse impacts of the election hiatus on project delivery.

Advancing delayed policy decisions

In addition to unblocking these stalled projects, the report calls for the advancement of delayed policy decisions.

These include the publication of the draft PR24 settlement in the water sector, the third Road Investment Strategy, and changes to payment reporting regulations.

The organisation stresses that prompt resolution of these issues will provide much-needed clarity to the industry.

The CECA also call on the next UK Government to:

• Publish a policy statement of intent that covers areas such as energy, transport, water, skills, and employment
• Engage with industry on delivering an English Skills Strategy
• Set a date for the next Fiscal Event, including timelines for the next Autumn Statement, Budget, and any future Spending Review
• Commit to best practices in project delivery.

Delivery of critical infrastructure requires close co-operation between industry and government

Commenting, CECA director of operations Marie-Claude Hemming said: “The formation of a new UK Government offers an opportunity to turn over a page in project delivery and get the economy firing on all cylinders once more.

“The success of the UK infrastructure sector rests on certainty of pipeline, clarity of policy, and close co-operation between industry and government.

“Once the results of the General Election are in and a new administration is formed, we must take steps to optimise the ability of CECA members to rapidly deliver schemes that will drive economic growth, create jobs, and underpin the wellbeing of businesses and communities in all parts of the country.

“We look forward to working with our members and the new Government to ensure that the policies are in place to unleash the economic potential of the UK, not just over the course of the first 100 days of the new Parliament, but in the months and years to come.

“All parties in the 2024 General Election have rightfully identified infrastructure delivery as a primary driver of economic growth and the backbone of a sustainable future.

“The UK’s contractors now stand ready to get spades in the ground on schemes across England, Scotland, and Wales, to turn manifesto plans into reality, and deliver the stronger Britain that we all want to see.”