Launching the National Infrastructure Plan at the CBI today, Cameron said: “I can announce today the UK’s first ever national infrastructure plan setting out the infrastructure Britain needs and how we will unlock some £200 billion worth of public and private sector investment over the next five years to deliver it.

“This is incredibly exciting, and it shows how, together, we can help create the right framework for growth in which British business can thrive and compete with the rest of the world.

“The immediate challenge is to rebuild the economy, creating the conditions for enterprise to flourish based on an expansion of the private sector.

“The economy has been too reliant on growth from a limited number of sectors and regions. The infrastructure investment programme will help rebalance the economy and give industries the right conditions in which to grow.”

The report claims the cost of building infrastructure in the UK is too expensive and talks about a reduction in public sector construction bills of 15%.

For a full copy of the report visit  http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/ppp_national_infrastructure_plan.htm

The Plan focuses on economic infrastructure, including energy, transport, digital communications, flood protection, water and waste management.

It restates the Government’s understanding that infrastructure supports private sector growth and quality of life and goes some way to setting out the Government’s role in how this infrastructure is delivered.

CECA National Director Rosemary Beales said: “We are extremely encouraged by the National Infrastructure Plan. CECA has lobbied hard for Government to take a long-term and holistic view of infrastructure and the  investment needed to maintain a competitive economy.

“Despite the recent cuts to road schemes and the fact that contractors are undoubtedly facing a difficult few years, there appears to be a new level of commitment to infrastructure. It is vital we work with Government to put in place the funding and other conditions to unlock major projects.

“This is an ambitious plan that links strategic and local infrastructure in the context of economic growth and sets out a comprehensive overview of next steps including the Green Investment Bank, National Policy Statements for planning in areas of major infrastructure and the costs of civil engineering study.

“As the report acknowledges, there is a need for a new approach to investing in the UK’s infrastructure, one that provides clarity and consistency over greater periods than we have had in the past. The National Infrastructure Plan is a strong step in that direction.”