Civil engineers in London are calling on mayoral candidates to prioritise infrastructure spending.

The Institution of Civil Engineers’ London branch has published an infrastructure manifesto ahead of the 3 May election of a mayor.

ICE London stresses that sustainable and fit for purpose infrastructure is necessary to fulfil the long term social, economic and environmental potential of the capital. While there are good opportunities for private finance, continued public investment is crucial, the engineers say.

A Manifesto for London’s Infrastructuresets out recommendations for maintaining and upgrading London’s infrastructure within the context of reduced budgets. It also address the pressures of population growth on transport, energy and water systems and simultaneous demands to cut carbon emissions.

ICE London calls for better use of existing opportunities to raise capital at the regional level, accelerated efforts to attract private finance to complement public funding, improved transport connectivity for outer areas of London and measures to address congestion such as improved passenger communications and better coordination of road works.

ICE London regional director Miranda Housden said: “London’s size, density and economic performance put acute pressures on its transport, energy, waste and water systems, but also presents unique opportunities for funding its improvement. To maintain its status as a global hub for business and tourism, continued public investment in London’s infrastructure is crucial; however this must be complemented by action to attract private finance. Although we recognise central government must ultimately take the lead on this, city hall also has a role to play in facilitating more joined up thinking and collaboration between the relevant public and private bodies. This is not just for the benefit of industry and London’s economy, but for the benefit of society as a whole.”

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