The National Infrastructure Commission, the government’s official infrastructure adviser, has issued a warning that urgent action must be taken to address public transport, high bills, and pollution in order to stimulate growth, improve quality of life, and combat climate change. In its annual review, the commission emphasized the critical nature of decisions that will be made in the next five years to shape a more cost-effective, environmentally-friendly, and secure future that is desired by the public.
While some progress has been made in certain areas, the commission’s report identified significant deficiencies in the UK’s infrastructure. These include a lack of investment in regional transportation, inadequate reservoir construction, and failure to protect homes from flooding. As a result, the commission noted that the well-being and productivity of citizens are being negatively impacted.
The commission’s review also highlighted a mixed record of progress in the past year. Some positive developments were noted, such as advancements in devolution and gigabit broadband. However, the report also pointed out that progress has been reversed in other areas, such as the use of heat pumps, which has led to missed targets and increased emissions from fossil fuels. Additionally, the commission expressed concerns about the government’s decision to cancel the northern leg of the HS2 project without a viable alternative plan, which could hinder economic growth.
The commission urged the government to accelerate decision-making and public investment, as well as provide stable policies to attract private funding. This call to action comes after the government’s previous attacks on net zero were criticized for deterring investment.
The commission acknowledged that the COVID-19 pandemic and cost of living crisis have caused delays in infrastructure upgrades, but emphasized that other countries are facing similar challenges. It stressed the need for the government to make prompt and long-term decisions in order to achieve economic and environmental goals that will benefit British households.
According to NIC chair Sir John Armitt, there is still a window of opportunity to implement practical delivery plans and secure necessary funding to improve the lives of citizens. However, he cautioned that this window is quickly closing and delaying action could exacerbate the disruptions of recent years.
In addition to addressing immediate concerns, the commission also emphasized the need for investment in infrastructure that will enable the UK to adapt to a changing climate. This includes measures to address water pollution and mitigate the effects of flooding and drought.
Jordan Cummins, representative from the business group CBI, stressed the importance of investing in physical and digital infrastructure to drive economic activity. He also called for a “Net Zero Investment Plan” that will provide businesses with certainty and encourage large-scale investment in the UK economy.
In response to the commission’s report, a government spokesperson stated that steps are being taken to ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place to support economic growth, improve quality of life, and combat climate change. This includes increasing renewable energy sources, empowering cities to develop necessary transportation systems, and addressing potholes across the country. The government also plans to invest billions into the low carbon transition, including through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme which is one of the most generous in Europe.
As the government moves forward with its £36bn Network North plan for long-term transportation, it is committed to providing the necessary infrastructure to support economic growth and tackle climate change.
