The Mineral Products Association (MPA) has welcomed the recent Spring Statement from the UK government for reinforcing the critical role of the aggregates sector.
The organisation said the recent statement showed opportunities for growth in construction and associated industries but also potential concerns due to the downgraded growth forecast for 2025.
“The construction and mineral products industries are critical to delivering the Government’s growth ambition and strengthening our national security. However, subdued growth prospects over the next five years – with growth not surpassing the 2 per cent in any year – poses real challenges, particularly for an industry that needs to plan long, and where investment involves high upfront costs,” MPA director of economic affairs Aurelie Delannoy said.
“The sector needs clearer commitments on infrastructure investment and a planning system that effectively supports construction and housing delivery sooner rather than later.”
The Office for Budget Responsibility’s revised growth forecast of 1.0 per cent for 2025 was showcased. The revised forecast follows the Chancellor’s call on regulators to focus on growth in January. The MPA wrote to the Chancellor afterwards to welcome her approach and encourage her to go further.
The Government has made a commitment to an additional £13 billion in capital infrastructure investment, including defence, over the next five years, but much of this spending is backloaded from 2027/28. The MPA also highlighted the increase in defence spending of £2.2 billion for 2025-26, including projects such as the Portsmouth naval base regeneration and improved housing for military personnel, and aggregates key role in national security projects.
The MPA has urged the government to engage closely with industry stakeholders to ensure that planned reforms and investments deliver meaningful economic benefits. It has also said an effective procurement system would be useful for UK producers and manufacturers.
“It is vital that the Government understands the importance of a public procurement policy that prioritises domestically produced materials such as cement and concrete,” MPA executive chair Chris Leese said.
“A strong, resilient supply chain underpinned by UK-manufactured products is essential to stimulate economic growth, protect working people’s jobs, and meet national infrastructure needs.”
