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CPA calls for increased capital expenditure

THE Construction Products Association has urged the Government to increase capital expenditure in this month's Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR).

In a letter to the Chancellor outlining priority areas for investment, CPA president Roy Harrison said: 'Our roads are in their worst state since the National Road Condition Survey began in 1977. Traffic levels and road congestion are increasing and the competitiveness of UK industry is being harmed by the lack of an efficient transport infrastructure.'

The 1999 National Road Condition Survey shows that lack of routine maintenance has left some 14% of the national road network with no residual life.

 

Furthermore, local authorities are receiving only one third of the budget they need to maintain roads adequately. As a result, current budget levels only permit roads to be resurfaced, on average, every 78 years, rather than the recommended frequency of 15 years.

'We are not improving the quality of life of people in this country in the way we should through, for example, better public transport, improved housing, and modern education and hospital buildings,' said Mr Harrison.

'The economy is strong and the Government's own finances are running at a surplus. It is a long time since there has been a better opportunity to tackle these problems and make long-term investment in improving the built environment in this country.'

 

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