The UK’s unreliable and congested transport network is undermining the long-term competitiveness of business, according to a new report by the CBI.
The CBI report, Time to change gear?, rates roads as the worst part of the transport network, in terms of reliability and capacity.
As part of a five-point plan, the report calls for road pricing on the strategic road network, alongside a significant expansion of the network by widening key congested routes.
‘The CBI has a long-standing view that road pricing has a role to play in tackling congestion on the road network, but government moves towards looking further at pricing have been only tentative,’ the report states.
It urges the Government to keep the transport budget at the level outlined in the 2007 Comprehensive Spending Review, and to stop dragging its feet over the delivery a long-term transport strategy.
‘Endless consultation and changing objectives are hindering development of transport system, and the Government must realise this can continue no longer.’ The report also calls for greater development of public-private partnerships, and the removal of barriers to the delivery of transport projects by implementing the Planning Act and national policy statements.
CBI deputy director-general, John Cridland, said: ‘We need a transport system fit for the needs of the 21st century – faster, more reliable, and lower-carbon. When the upturn in the economy comes, poor transport must not be allowed to hold UK business back.’
The launch of the report coincides with the first meeting of the CBI transport task and finish group, which is tasked with suggesting new ways to inject investment and innovation into the transport system.
Register now for full access
Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.
Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors.
Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.
Already a registered? Login
