CECA calls for new approach ahead of Greenwood's keynote

One of the UK's largest and most influential contractors bodies has called for a radical new approach to managing the nation's infrastructure assets, ahead of its annual conference later this month.

The Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) will be hosting delegates on 24 October at its 'aging assets' conference in Aerospace Bristol, with roads minister Lilian Greenwood (pictured) making the keynote address.

This will be one of the first appearances Ms Greenwood has made in front of industry since taking on her new ministerial role and one of her last appearances before the Budget on 30 October.

CECA's director of operations, Marie-Claude Hemming said: 'A large part of the UK’s infrastructure asset base is operating well beyond its anticipated lifecycle or is not able to meet the challenges of the 21st Century.

'Regular maintenance - driven by innovation - has delivered much lauded cost and environmental savings. Yet, such an approach can only go so far; the challenges of climate change combined with reduced public spending have highlighted weaknesses which impact the UK public on a near daily basis.

'With an increasing level of potholes in our roads, regular delays to our rail travel due to asset failure, broadband services which do not meet modern day requirements, and the not unreasonable anticipation of reliable energy and water supply, the UK is at a pivotal point as governments seek to meet public need.

'Maintaining the status quo is not an option. UK policymaking needs a radical approach to deliver the world class infrastructure we all need to live and work.'

To reserve your place at the CECA annual conference click here.