The Chancellor’s speech yesterday, aimed at kickstarting the economy, made a number of positive commitments for the infrastructure needed to unblock barriers to growth. This is something that has been long called for by the East of England Local Government Association (EELGA).
The East of England, linking closely with the Oxford-Cambridge growth corridor, has long played a crucial role in boosting innovation, productivity and increased GVA for the economy. However, the region has experienced decades of underinvestment in its infrastructure, and this has acted as a barrier to prosperity for the whole nation.
Positive news in yesterday’s speech included backing for the Fen Reservoir, a crucial piece of infrastructure in delivering housing and economic growth, transport improvements including East West Rail, A428 upgrades and the expansion of Luton Airport.
On research and innovation, an area that the East of England already excels in, the announcement that the new Cambridge cancer research hospital is being prioritised for investment and a new innovation hub from Cambridge University.
EELGA calls on the Government to take this opportunity to realise the whole region’s potential in this year’s Spending Review. Growth and investment must be sustainable, inclusive and take account of the East of England’s offer to deliver growth. We must see:
- Initial development funding for the crucial Ely and Haughley rail enhancement schemes
- The benefits of East West Rail stretching further to Norwich and Ipswich
- Investment to unlock housing delivery including the A12, A14 and other major roads.
It is also paramount that the local government sector is viewed as the trusted partner to deliver on the nation’s economic growth ambitions in the Spending Review. The Government must now follow through on its commitments to multi-year finance settlements, simplified, less competitive grants and a new funding formula that recognises and rewards growth.
For any press enquiries, please contact Sharon Bleese, EELGA, email; sharon.bleese@eelga.gov.uk