Transport investment 'should not be slashed' says report

Date: 22/2/2010

Investment in proposed transport projects over the next five years could boost the UK economy by £85 billion, a report released today (February 22nd) has stated.

According to the report by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), transport projects should not be axed or postponed despite tight public finances, because the benefits are likely to be significant.

The report stated UK firms believe investment in national and regional transport projects is "essential to the future success and growth of regional economies".

Projects the report suggested should go ahead include London's Crossrail train link, a third runway at Heathrow airport, high-speed rail networks across the country and road improvements nationwide.

The third runway was estimated to give the greatest returns, providing a £1.7 billion economic boost.

BCC director general David Frost commented: "Transport infrastructure cuts must not become a politically convenient way to slash spending after an election, especially when there are huge savings to be made in far larger budgets, including health, education and welfare."