New Chair for National Infrastructure Commission

© ICE - Sir John Armitt

The National Infrastructure Commission has appointed Sir John Armitt as their new Chair. Sir John will provide strategic advice to ensure the UK has the long-term infrastructure it needs to thrive.

Sir John is no stranger to Infrastructure, having served as a Commissioner since the NIC was established in 2015, and last year he was appointed Deputy Chair.

In fact, with an engineering background and particular expertise in infrastructure and major project delivery, Sir John has worked at the forefront of UK infrastructure for some time. His positions have included the Chief Executive of Network Rail, President of the Institution of Civil Engineers and Chairman of the Olympic Delivery Authority, where he played a key role in coordinating the 2012 London Olympics.

He was awarded a CBE in 1996 for his contribution to the rail industry and a knighthood in 2012 for his work in engineering and construction.

Announcing the appointment, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond, said: “Boosting productivity is essential to sustaining real wage growth. And investing in infrastructure is one of the keys to raising our productivity performance.

“The National Infrastructure Commission’s expertise is vital for ensuring the UK’s infrastructure is fit for the future. Sir John Armitt brings years of experience of UK infrastructure. With him at the helm, I am confident we will develop a strategic and ambitious infrastructure plan that supports economic growth for decades to come.”

Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission Sir John Armitt said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed as the Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission as we prepare for the publication of our first National Infrastructure Assessment later this year.

“Making the right choices about planning and investing in infrastructure is critical to the UK’s prosperity and quality of life. I want the Commission to remain focused on tackling the long-term issues of congestion, capacity and carbon – and to continue to hold the government to account where decisive action is needed – so we can secure the improvements that companies, communities and families need.

“I look forward to working with my fellow Commissioners and listening to our stakeholders as we set out the way forward for the UK’s infrastructure.”

Sir John replaces Lord Adonis as Chair, and takes charge of the NIC’s exciting programme of work, with the first ever National Infrastructure Assessment due out this summer. The assessment will take a long-term view of Britain’s infrastructure needs and make recommendations to the government on how best to meet them.

ICE Director General Nick Baveystock said: “As Deputy Chairman, Sir John Armitt has already brought great industry experience to the NIC. I am delighted to see him now appointed as the new Chairman, providing the continuity and expertise needed to allow the body to set out a long term, strategic assessment of the UK’s infrastructure needs. As we look forward to the publication of the National Infrastructure Assessment, the ICE will continue to work together with the NIC not only to secure our long term economic strength but to improve people’s quality of life across the UK. At a time of so much political and economic uncertainty, we need a strong and authoritative NIC now more than ever.”

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