Responding to today’s Queen Speech, Chief Executive of the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) Hannah Vickers said:

“Many in our sector will be delighted with today’s Queen’s Speech, which recognises the key role that infrastructure plays in supporting a strong economy. The commitment to spending £100 billion on infrastructure, alongside support for Phase 2a of HS2, Northern Powerhouse Rail and the Midlands Rail Hub, should be welcomed by all.

“Furthermore, more devolved powers to English cities and regions will provide the structures to plan and manage this infrastructure investment wisely, and ensure it meets the needs of local communities. Plans to invest in STEM education, broadband connectivity and R&D should also be welcomed as it will help unlock productivity in the longer-term and ensure the industry can play its part in delivering the infrastructure revolution.

“While we wait to see the detail and ambitions of the National Infrastructure Strategy alongside the first Budget, we want government to know that our members are ready to work alongside them to turn these pledges into reality. We need to transition to the next stage as soon as possible with tangible plans, projects, start dates and deadlines to help make up for the slow progress in recent years.”