Overview

This major report from CMS Cameron Mckenna assesses the position of the three main parties on the broad themes of infrastructure planning and investment structures.

It also examines in detail each party’s sector-specific policies on clean energy, waste, transport, defence, health, custodial and justice, education and social housing.

A strong UK infrastructure investment programme:

- Supports the delivery of public services, an essential “plank” of any political party’s campaign to win and retain power;
- Provides an economic stimulus to support a weak economy recovering from recession; and
— Creates business activity within the infrastructure sector which ultimately produces tax revenues for Government, in addition to the economic and/or social benefits derived.

As the 2010 UK General Election approaches and the parties set out their policy manifestos, a picture of the future of infrastructure development in the UK is beginning to emerge. It is already clear that, as we emerge from recession, investment in infrastructure remains a critical priority for all parties and, in a tight budgetary environment and given the size of the infrastructure challenge, private sector involvement in financing and delivery will be key.

Estimates of the amount of infrastructure investment needed in the UK vary. The Policy Exchange puts it conservatively at £430 billion by 2020 and says realistically that it would be more than £500 billion. Infrastructure UK puts the figure at £200 billion or greater by 2020. With changes to the infrastructure market on the cards whichever party is in power, private investors will need to ensure they are ready to make the most of the opportunities in the priority investment areas for the next parliament.

This report is designed to help your business get ready. Click “view briefing” to read more.