The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is today calling on all political parties to put infrastructure at the heat of economic policy following the General Election.

ICE has published a manifesto which recognises infrastructure as the bedrock of economic growth, with the capacity to create jobs and significantly improve people's lives. It asks that:

* Brexit negotiations consolidate the UK's status as an attractive location for infrastructure investment

* The UK avoids a self-inflicted skills crisis by guaranteeing the status of EU nationals working in the UK

* The UK is allowed to become a global leader in infrastructure innovation and technology

* Productivity and regional growth are driven through the nation's infrastructure

In its manifesto, ICE says there is a direct connection between the efficiency and effectiveness of our infrastructure and productivity within communities across the UK. It asks all parties to commit to delivering a modern industrial strategy, so that infrastructure services increase productivity.

On publishing the manifesto, ICE Director General Nick Baveystock said: "Effective, efficient and innovative infrastructure is at the heart of a thriving, successful and modern economy. When infrastructure projects flourish, the entire economy benefits. We know that £1 of infrastructure construction raises economic activity by £2.84. The sector also helps boost employment. Every 1,000 direct jobs created by the delivery of new infrastructure boosts wider employment by over 3,000 jobs."

Miranda Housden, ICE South West Director said: "The South West has a legacy of under-investment into infrastructure, particularly into areas such as its road and rail networks, which contributes to its poor connectivity. These factors not only affect communities, they affect the ability of businesses to engage with markets on a local, regional, national and international basis.

"More investment enables a bigger and stronger economy, and we encourage Government to commit to funding these key areas of infrastructure in order that the South West can compete on a level playing field with other regions."

The ICE manifesto can be found at www.ice.org.uk/election2017