Senior leaders from prominent public and private organizations have urged the Government to explore strategies that attract investment and maximize the UK’s potential, in anticipation of the upcoming Budget.
During a discussion on “Pre-Budget Requests and Sentiments” on the UK Cities & Partners Investment Pavilion Stage at EXPO REAL 2024—Europe’s premier event for inward investment—business and trade experts shared their views ahead of the Government’s upcoming Budget announcement to Parliament on October 30.
UKCAP, a collaborative mission aligned with the Government’s goal to boost economic growth, highlighted investment opportunities exceeding £100 billion in its Investment Prospectus. Delegates presented clear recommendations to the Government and Chancellor Rachel Reeves on creating conditions that attract investment for high-growth projects across the UK.
Jen Hartley, Director of Invest Newcastle, stated: “I am hopeful the Budget will introduce incentives to unlock capital for projects in Newcastle and encourage additional investment from Europe into the UK.”
Jace Tyrell, Chief Executive of Opportunity London, added: “We need a fiscal policy that promotes large-scale investments and expedites critical projects, like the Euston redevelopment, signaling to the market that the UK is serious about investment.”
Frances Moffett-Kouadio, Strategic Investment Director for the Thames Estuary Growth Board, expressed: “We’re seeking development corporation powers to help local authorities move forward with projects delayed for years, and ideally bring in more financing. We also need support in developing our own fund, enabling us to partner with investors to reduce their risk.”
Chris Taylor, Chairman of MEPC and Head of Real Estate at Federated Hermes, highlighted: “The UK’s talent pool is its greatest asset, so my appeal to the Government is to prioritize measures, such as visa reforms, to ensure ongoing access to top talent.”
