INFRASTRUCTURE improvements and support to boost innovation should be at the heart of the government’s spending plans to be unveiled by Chancellor George Osborne, according to regional manufacturing leaders.

They are calling for massive investment to improve roads, along with funding for innovation through initiatives such as the new network of Catapult centres, one of which will open in Bradford next year.

EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, says the government should focus on these areas to build on the strong economic recovery and lay foundations for longer-term economic growth.

It is urging the chancellor to focus on measures to help manufacturers’ current and future investment plans and boost skills while ensuring a competitive and stable business tax regime.

Andy Tuscher, EEF Yorkshire regional director, said: “We have seen a significant turnaround in the economy over the last year and it is important for the government to maintain its focus on areas which drive growth, including maintaining a competitive tax regime and other measures which support high value investment and innovation.

“Despite the forthcoming election, the government must continue to drive forward with policies which support long-term growth and the re-balancing of our economy.

“Manufacturers are also heavily reliant on road networks. Implementation of those projects left on the ‘too difficult’ list for too long is an urgent priority.”

“In addition, government has created a network of innovation centres which bring industry and universities together as a seed-bed for new ideas and business opportunities. Amid the many funding pressures ministers face I hope that support for the existing Catapult centres will therefore be enhanced to make sure they stay at the cutting edge of technology and keep Britain at the forefront of manufacturing excellence.

It was revealed earlier this month that Bradford is to have a new centre aimed at nurturing creative and digital businesses, one of three new Catapult centres.

The Digital Catapult Centre Yorkshire will provide space for start-ups and small businesses in the creative and technology sectors to develop and showcase their digital ideas and products.

Firms will also be able to use it to connect and collaborate with larger businesses, universities and public sector organisations. The project will be led by the University of Bradford.

EEF says a third of its member companies believe the road network to be ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’, while two thirds believe investment in the road network should be the Government’s main priority.

It is pressing for a timetable to be published for tackling key road improvement schemes and the rapidly escalating £12billion local road maintenance backlog.