Capital expenditure strategies for construction and unique assets: turning ambitious investment plans into tangible outcomes
In the heart of Europe, Germany is grappling with a significant repair backlog, including dilapidated bridges, outdated rail networks, overloaded roads, and dilapidated schools and kindergartens. Amidst this, the construction industry is voicing concerns over the use of special assets to plug budget holes.
The Central Association of the German Construction Industry, along with three peak associations of the construction and raw materials industry, has criticized the diversion of funds from special assets away from their intended purpose, budget consolidation. Instead, they advocate for reliable, long-term financing of public infrastructure projects.
Peter Hübner, president of the Central Association of the German Construction Industry, has expressed his concern, stating that there is no promised additional benefit from the special assets. He also points out the responsibility of the parties involved in the ongoing budget negotiations, likening their actions to the collapse of the bridge in Dresden, which underscores the urgency for a real investment offensive in construction.
The associations are calling for fair and collectively agreed working conditions to be made the standard, and a comprehensive introduction of a digital time recording system for optimal control over hours worked. They also emphasize the importance of local acceptance and approved raw materials for the effectiveness of the special fund.
Germany's dependence on imports for mineral raw materials like gravel, crushed stone, and sand is a cause for concern. Domestic extraction of these materials should be recognized as a public service, as stated by MIRO. However, due to missing extraction permits, more and more extraction sites are closing, leading to regional shortages.
To address this issue, the associations call for a significant acceleration of planning and approval procedures for infrastructure projects and raw material extraction. Organizations like the Bundesnetzagentur and initiatives from Bitkom and other government bodies are involved in improving these processes.
The associations continue to call on the federal government to present a consistent infrastructure strategy that covers all aspects of the value chain, from raw material extraction to skilled worker security. This includes employing skilled workers recruited from abroad in companies bound by collective agreements, and recognizing the extraction of rock raw materials as a public service.
In conclusion, the construction industry in Germany is urging for sustainable and reliable investment in infrastructure, ensuring fair working conditions, local acceptance, and a reduction in dependence on imports. The upcoming budget negotiations present a critical opportunity for the government to address these concerns and set a course for a more resilient and efficient construction sector.
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