New funding for transport connections within cities is a welcome move towards boosting productivity and improving key infrastructure, Lord Adonis said today.

The chairman of the National Infrastructure Commission said the £1.7billion announced by the Government would further support the economic potential of the UK’s cities – a key focus in delivering the country’s first-ever National Infrastructure Assessment.

However, Lord Adonis pointed to a key finding in the interim Assessment published in October, that a clear strategy is needed for investment in cities, rather than funding provided on an ad hoc basis.  He also highlighted the need for more progress to be made on plans for a new HS3 line to connect cities in the North of England, and on Crossrail 2 to increase rail capacity in London.

Lord Adonis said:

“As part of our work to deliver the country’s first ever National Infrastructure Assessment, we’ve made clear the vital role our cities play in securing the economic future of the country as a whole and the need to improve their local transport systems.

“Today’s announcement of £1.7billion investment is a welcome move, and one which I hope will help ensure communities both in and near our cities to prosper.  But this needs to be part of a wider and longer-term investment strategy, so our cities can plan for the future.

“And ahead of work starting on HS2 next year I would also like to see serious progress on the much-needed HS3 between our Northern cities, and work to increase capacity in the Capital through Crossrail 2, to help ensure the country as a whole can truly reach its economic potential.”