Why the UK is struggling with poor infrastructure (Financial Times, 8/20/2017)
"The World Economic Forum last year ranked the quality of Britain’s infrastructure 24th in the world, down from 19th in 2006. This puts Britain mid-table among industrialised countries, and towards the bottom of the group of G7 nations."
"One problem holding back comprehensive infrastructure improvement, which would boost the economy, notably in productivity terms, is politicians’ apparent infatuation with mega projects."
"Other barriers to infrastructure improvements are a lack of political vision and long-term strategy, say experts, as well Britain’s bureaucratic planning system. But the biggest single issue is lack of funds."
“Cities like Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Berlin and Dublin punch above their weight in attracting institutional investment in infrastructure and real estate because they have a clear vision and strategic plan,” says Lisette van Doorn, chief executive of the Urban Land Institute Europe, a research body.