Research and Information Service Research Paper December 2016 Des McKibbin Planning, financing and delivering transport infrastructure NIAR 342-16 This paper compares the various ways in which transport infrastructure is planned, financed and delivered in each of the UK regions. This includes a comparison of public spending on roads, bus and rail provision with an analysis of the subsidies paid to operators. The role of private sector finance in the delivery of infrastructure is considered and the various approaches to employing private capital, including how this is paid for, in the UK regions as well as in Belgium and Germany is set out Paper 21/17 December 2016 Research and Information Service briefings are compiled for the benefit of MLAs and their support staff. Authors are available to discuss the contents of these papers with Members and their staff but cannot advise members of the general public. We do, however, welcome written evidence that relates to our papers and this should be sent to the Research and Information Service, Northern Ireland Assembly, Room 139, Parliament Buildings, Belfast BT4 3XX or e-mailed to
[email protected] NIAR 342-16 Research Paper Executive Summary High quality infrastructure is a critical element of a country’s economic and social prosperity and while the UK ranks highly in the global infrastructure league tables it does fall short of a number of countries of similar size and wealth. At a regional level within the UK most powers relating to transport are devolved and as a result of this there is significant variation in the level of transport investment.