How do we deliver infrastructure which supports economic growth, is resilient to future challenges such as climate change and population growth, and is affordable? And how must our industry transform to meet these challenges and opportunities?
These are the key issues set to be debated at the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) ‘Infrastructure Revolution Hub’ – a major new conference centre at the upcoming Ecobuild 2016.
The Infrastructure Revolution Hub is being hosted over the three days of Ecobuild – March 8-10 at ExCeL. A hard-hitting session entitled ‘How world class infrastructure will bring resilience to the economy’ starts the programme, chaired by ICE Vice President Keith Clarke, and featuring speakers from GLA and The Airport Operators Association.
Other sessions will debate the future demands of urban infrastructure, how we accommodate demand for energy at the lowest possible environmental cost, and whether there is a place for smaller scale innovations in the supply chain.
A host of major clients will have a stand presence within the Infrastructure Revolution Hub including HS2, Crossrail, The Environment Agency, Anglian Water, Transport for London, Heathrow, Thames Tideway Tunnel and the Cabinet Office Government Construction Team.
ICE Director of Knowledge, Nathan Baker, said: “The Government has placed infrastructure at the heart of its economic strategy, committing to £100bn investment over the next 5 years and a pipeline of projects. The opportunity is there, but it comes with a host of challenges – not least population growth, climate change, skills shortages and the need for us to find ways to deliver more for less.
“In short, our industry needs to transform. Now is the time for us come together and debate these key issues - and the Infrastructure Revolution Hub provides a fitting centre for this debate.”
“Infrastructure is at the true heart of the UK construction industry – it feeds and supports every other discipline,” commented Martin Hurn, Ecobuild Event Director. “The UK is at a critical turning point in the delivery of infrastructure for our future generations. Government has pledged massive investment but we are faced with a skills gap and increasing demands in terms of sustainability, wellbeing and the need for innovation to drive best value.
“The inclusion of Infrastructure Revolution at this year’s Ecobuild is representative of the vital role infrastructure plays in both the UK built environment and economy.”
Reflecting the construction industry, Ecobuild is constantly evolving; ensuring that it continues to provide relevant, dynamic content and create opportunities to make new connections.
Ecobuild 2016 is co-located with Resource, the leading resource efficiency event, from March 8-10 at London’s ExCeL.
