29 Jan 2025

Today, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced several significant infrastructure initiatives aimed at stimulating economic growth:

  • Heathrow Airport Expansion: The government is officially backing plans to build a third runway at Heathrow Airport.
  • Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor: Reeves unveiled plans to develop the area between Oxford and Cambridge into “Europe’s Silicon Valley,” aiming to boost the UK economy by up to £78 billion by 2035.
  • East-West Rail Link: As part of the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor, the government is supporting the East-West Rail project to improve connectivity between the two cities.
  • Airport Expansions at Gatwick and Luton: Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is expected to make decisions on expansion plans at Gatwick and Luton airports shortly.
  • Doncaster Sheffield Airport: The government will collaborate with Doncaster Council and the Mayor of South Yorkshire to support efforts to reopen Doncaster Sheffield Airport as a thriving regional hub.

These initiatives are part of the government’s strategy to enhance infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and improve regional connectivity.

Ireland has recently announced several significant infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing transportation, energy, and digital connectivity:

Transportation

  • All-Island Strategic Rail Review: In July 2024, the Irish government unveiled a comprehensive €37 billion plan to transform the rail network by 2050. Key proposals include:
    • Electrification of existing lines.Introduction of high-speed trains capable of reaching 200 km/h, potentially halving travel times on certain routes.Direct rail links to major airports.Increased service frequencies and expanded track capacity.Reopening of previously closed lines, particularly in the northwest.
    These initiatives aim to promote sustainable travel and support regional development.

  • BusConnects Dublin: Announced in mid-January 2025, this project seeks to revamp Dublin’s public transport system by:
    • Enhancing bus services.
    • Improving active travel infrastructure.
    • Promoting sustainable commuting options.
    The initiative aims to make public transport a more attractive choice for both residents and visitors.

Energy

  • Celtic Interconnector: As of January 2025, construction is underway on a 700 MW high-voltage direct current (HVDC) submarine power cable linking Ireland and France. Spanning 575 km, with 500 km underwater, the interconnector is expected to:
    • Enhance energy security.
    • Facilitate renewable energy integration.
    • Reduce electricity costs.
    Trial operations are slated to begin in 2026.

Digital Connectivity

  • Subsea Internet Cables: Given that approximately 75% of transatlantic subsea internet cables pass through or near Irish waters, there have been calls to bolster the defense of this critical infrastructure.
    • Enhancing maritime security.
    • Investing in modern surveillance technologies.
    • Collaborating internationally to protect these vital connections.
    These measures aim to safeguard Ireland’s strategic role in global communications.

These developments reflect Ireland’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure to support economic growth, sustainability, and enhanced connectivity.