Chamber reaction to 10-year infrastructure strategy
“This strategy marks a welcome shift from short-term announcements to long-term planning, exactly what businesses and employers in the region have been calling for.
“A 10-year infrastructure plan provides much-needed certainty to give local leaders and the region’s two Mayors the tools to deliver real change. The confirmation of an integrated funding settlement for the North East Combined Authority from 2026 is a significant step forward, supporting joined-up decisions on transport, skills and housing.
“We’re also pleased to see important additional projects being announced, including investment in the Tees Tidelands Programme, the East Coast Cluster for carbon capture, and 47 school rebuilding projects. The creation of a Strategic Investment Opportunities unit, which will partner with our mayoral-led combined authorities, focusing on developing demand-led investment, is positive too and an opportunity the region is well-placed to capitalise on.
“The Chamber’s policy team, on behalf of our 2,000 members, will be looking closely at the details and plans for delivery. The North East has the people, skills, passion, assets, and ambition to accelerate the UK’s journey to net zero and to lead in advanced industry. We look forward to working with members and partners to ensure these opportunities are grasped and made real, at pace.”
