The Infrastructure Strategy, published on 19 June, confirmed some key announcements for the region, and set out how the government will continue to invest. They will look to judge infrastructure on how it links into the UK’s industrial strategy objectives, and on a spatial model so that regions get a full infrastructure portfolio to support their local objectives.
The recognition of the role that local authorities currently play, enhanced by future Devolution, is most welcome. Furthermore, the confirmation of key infrastructure projects, such as Sizewell C, East West Rail, and the largest allocation of schools to be constructed of any English Region through the School Rebuilding Programme, is also welcome.
More generally, the funding announced for the 10-year floods investment programme, consisting of £7.9 billion between 2026/27 – 2035/365 is a welcome boost for coastal and low-lying areas, of which the East has many.
As the Infrastructure Strategy sets out the importance of growth, it is increasingly clear that the whole of the UK would benefit from key investment in the East of England. According to our landmark report, Opportunity East, investment in our region is considerably lower than the national average, and yet we are strongly overrepresented in key sectors that the Government is keen to promote. Therefore, investment in our region is investment in the whole country, driving growth, boosting productivity and creating regional inclusive prosperity.
However, the report remains silent on key infrastructure needed by both the region, and the whole of the UK. Further announcements around Ely and Haughley are urgently needed as a key part of the UK’s future freight rail network. Furthermore, a greater focus on understanding the potential of extending East West Rail to Norwich and Ipswich to boost the economy of the entire of the East would be welcome,
Within the Infrastructure Strategy, the government confirms that a more formal pipeline of projects will be published in July. We look forward to this publication, and for further details of what we can expect funded in the East of England.
Cllr Graham Butland, Chair of Local Government East and Leader of Braintree Council, said:
“Infrastructure development in the East is crucial for sustainable growth, crucial for housing, and crucial for the wellbeing of our residents. We look forward to hearing more about the Government’s planned infrastructure itinerary in the upcoming Infrastructure Pipeline.”