New infrastructure survey reveals construction industry confidence

A new survey has revealed that the construction industry is in confident mood as the UK undertakes some of the largest infrastructure projects seen in decades.

The Infrastructure Outlook Report, which was commissioned by Tarmac and conducted by Ipsos Mori polled 300 senior decision makers within the construction industry and revealed that more than two thirds (68%) of respondents were confident about the overall outlook for infrastructure over the next year.

Tarmac Chief Executive Cyrille Ragoucy said: “It’s great to see that the construction industry is in a confident mood, but there is no room for complacency.

“Challenges remain in meeting the UK’s infrastructure requirements and there is concern about the delivery in the years ahead.”

However, there were concerns raised about HS2 and a lack of awareness of the Northern Powerhouse.

In a blow to the Chancellor George Osborne, the survey revealed that 86% of company bosses working in infrastructure knew little or nothing at all about the Northern Powerhouse.

Only 13% said they knew ‘a great deal’ or a ‘fair amount’ about the project.

Yesterday, the Chancellor announced the HS2 link between Birmingham and Crewe will open in 2027, six years ahead of original plans.

The HS2 link from London to Birmingham and the planned HS3 link between Manchester and Leeds received an unenthusiastic response from respondents. The results from the survey suggested that construction companies were far keener to see road networks maintained and upgraded.

Over 50% felt that London would be the biggest beneficiaries of the government’s infrastructure plans, with only 4% feeling the North West would benefit the most.

66% thought the government needed to do more to meet the UK’s long term infrastructure needs, feeling the nation still fell short of what is being delivered by countries internationally.

Andy Rowley, Tarmac Commercial Director, said: “The Northern Powerhouse is a flagship Government initiative to drive the economies of the North. But, while 62 per cent of respondents have heard of its name, most actually know nothing or little about what it actually is, suggesting that the concept needs to be fleshed out with more tangible programmes.

“The North is making steps, including in building infrastructure, to enable northern businesses to win more opportunities and create the wealth and jobs needed.”

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