Transport and the Economy

Evidence from North East Lincolnshire Council (TE 116)

As the Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council I wish to provide this written submission to the Transport Select Committee’s Call for Evidence, and also to respond directly to the Select Committee ’s recent oral evidence session held in our neighbouring area of Hull on 2 nd November.

North East Lincolnshire is home to the Port of Immingham , the largest deep water port in Europe and the largest port operation in the UK . As a key international gateway to continental Europe for mineral imports, and a major hub for refining and chemical industries, the Humber ports cluster is our single most important economic driver and transport remains the most significant barrier to releasing its current and future potential.

In response to your consultation questions, t he Eddington Study remains vital and relevant to transport policy . As key international gateways , major ports should remain priorities for investment with regard to encouraging economic growth.

With significant areas of flat development land adjacent to a deep water inland estuary, the South Humber Gateway offers unrivalled opportunities for growth in the UK ’s Renewable industries.

The potential for private sector led investment is demonstrated by Able UK ’s current £100m Marine Energy Park proposal . This is matched by the Humber’s locational advantage allowing efficient access between central and northern England and continental Europe .

The UK ’s fiscal position rightly raises the issue of appraisal and prioritisation of transport investment. In the overall context of spending reductions, a balance of investment in transport is still necessary across local and regional networks , in order to support economic growth at all levels.

However, in terms of prioritising major transport investment, the clear criteria should be the long term value added to our strategic economic assets. This should of course be underpinned by deliverability, local support, and existing value for money assessments.

There are a number of strategic infrastructure developments which would benefit our community and the wider economic area. Following these principles, our top priority for transport are the major road links that provide strategic added value to the Port of Immingham ; namely, the A18-A180 Link, and the A160 Improvements.

In conclusion, the key asset that drives our economic area is the international gateway of the South Humber Bank. Adding strategic value to this asset offers the greatest economic benefits to the area and this potential can be realised to best affect through the identified improvements to the strategic road network.

November 2010