The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has launched a market study into the design, planning, and delivery of road and railway infrastructure across the UK.
This comes at a crucial time as the government outlines its long-term infrastructure plans and legislative reforms.
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The study aligns with the CMA’s commitment to 4Ps, notably pace, predictability, proportionality, and enhanced process.
The study aims to identify opportunities to improve collaboration between the public sector and industry, focusing on public procurement improvements. While it may lead to recommendations for the government, the CMA lacks direct intervention power.
According to the calculations of the Office for National Statistics, the civil engineering sector contributed £23bn to the UK economy in 2023, and this study could enhance productivity and reduce barriers.
The National Infrastructure Commission estimates that an increase in public and private investment ranging from 30% to 50% over the next decade is necessary for complex infrastructure.
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By GlobalDataIt also suggests that system-wide improvements could save 10% to 25% on infrastructure projects. Road and railway projects account for approximately 70% to 75% of government spending on economic infrastructure.
The review will focus on ensuring public authorities access the right information for decision-making, assessing regulatory barriers, and examining changes to incentivise civil engineering companies.
The CMA will consider national and regional perspectives to form a comprehensive view and make recommendations for market improvements.
CMA chief executive Sarah Cardell stated: “There’s no question that reliable, high-quality infrastructure is critical in accelerating economic growth. To achieve this, public authorities and the civil engineering sector must be able to work together to deliver projects on time, within budget and to high standards.
“This review is a crucial step in identifying barriers holding back the sector – supporting the drive to get Britain building and ensuring every penny spent is delivering value for taxpayers.”
The CMA seeks input from businesses involved in infrastructure design and supply chain activities. The study will adhere to the CMA’s ‘4Ps’ commitments, aiming to complete the work in ten months and provide a clear roadmap for business engagement.
The UK’s Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones remarked: “Upgrading the country’s economic infrastructure is essential for unlocking growth across the country and delivering our Plan for Change.”
The study will support the government’s ten-year infrastructure strategy, covering the full lifecycle of roads and railways, excluding privately procured roads and minor maintenance activities. HS2 is also excluded due to previous reviews.
Civil Engineering Contractors Association chief executive Alasdair Reisner expressed support for the study, emphasising the importance of productive delivery in civil engineering.
The CMA plans to publish an interim report with initial findings in November.
