The
Construction Equipment Association (CEA) has released its 2024 Manifesto,
outlining a comprehensive strategy to advance the UK construction equipment
industry.
Focusing
on decarbonisation, digital transformation, skills development, and regulatory
consistency, the Manifesto highlights critical areas for growth and alignment
with global standards.
Viki Bell, CEA Director of Operations, said: "With the
General Election scheduled for 4th July, it is paramount that the CEA continues
to be the industry's voice to the UK Government and local and devolved
Governments while representing our Members in Europe
and around the world."
“In the Spring of 2024, the CEA Policy Group was
established to prepare this Manifesto, which sets out our position for a clear
and transparent approach to tackle the challenges facing the Construction
Equipment sector and the wider Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing, and
Education sectors."
Key highlights from the Manifesto include:
- Decarbonisation: Advocating for a technology-neutral approach, the CEA
supports the development of electric, hydrogen, and low-emission diesel
technologies. Key asks include national planning for alternative fuel
infrastructure and alignment of UK legislation with EU standards for hydrogen
combustion engines.
- Digitalisation: Emphasising the need for the UK to maintain its competitive
edge, the CEA calls for harmonised digital legislation and a coordinated effort
to bridge the digital skills gap within the industry.
- Skills development: Addressing the need for a skilled workforce, the Manifesto
proposes collaboration with educational organisations and support for technical
colleges to ensure a steady pipeline of talent in STEM fields.
- Regulatory Consistency: The CEA urges the government to maintain stability in
infrastructure planning and regulatory alignment with the EU to avoid making
the UK an unattractive market for international manufacturers.
The
Manifesto underlines the CEA's commitment to being the industry voice and
advocating for policies that support sustainable growth and innovation.
Viki concluded: "Sincere thanks to the CEA Policy Group
for their hard work and dedication. Their efforts have been instrumental in
advancing our initiatives and supporting the industry's growth. Thank you for
your valuable contributions in producing this Manifesto. The group's work will
continue to be crucial for our success."
The
CEA Policy Group, whose collective efforts produced the Manifesto, includes the
following members: Viki Bell, CEA Director of Operations; Dale Camsell, CEA
Technical Lead; Joanna Oliver, CEA International Business; Charles Stevenson
from the CEA Board (JCB); Denise Peet from Caterpillar; David Waine from
ConMech Engineers; Rob White from Kubota; Chris Sleight from Off-Highway
Research; and Mark Bowen from ZF Services. Their collaboration and dedication
have been essential in developing the Manifesto.
View the CEAManifesto here.View the CEAManifesto here.
