The Chief Executive of the Railway Industry Association says he is disappointed in the number of construction-ready rail projects listed in the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP).
The (NSIP) list in the transport sector includes projects requiring a Development Consent Order to proceed.
The full list can be viewed here.
Darren Caplan, Chief Executive of the Railway Industry Association (RIA), said: “The Government should be given credit for publishing this list of Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects despite the Coronavirus crisis. However, from the railway industry’s perspective the list fails to detail rail enhancements and upgrades, which are crucial if the Government wants the rail supply sector to build an even better, world-class, rail network for the future.
“As the Government plans an economic recovery from the Coronavirus outbreak, it is likely that transport will be one of its infrastructure priorities. So it is disappointing the NSIP list fails to include more in the way of construction-ready rail projects that will generate economic growth, investment and jobs, at a time when this boost will be most needed.
“The railway industry will continue to work with the Government, but can only help with plans for the recovery if there is clear visibility of the kind of enhancements and upgrade projects which should have been in the NSIP. If we can have more certainty of upcoming work, the rail supply industry will be able to play an even bigger part in ensuring the UK is ‘match fit’ to deliver for UK plc, its economy and connectivity, in the difficult weeks and months ahead.”
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