Civil engineers’ chief highlights Warrington’s “big issues”

THE new regional director of the Institution of Civil Engineers has highlighted “big issues” facing Warrington.
Darrell Matthews – previously regional director for the manufacturers’ organisation EEF and the Institute of Directors – has joined ICE as North West regional director, representing its 6,000 members in the region.
ICE is often seen as the “voice of infrastructure” in discussions with various levels of government, and Mr Matthews  takes his new post as infrastructure issues – from the Northern Powerhouse to energy and flooding – are increasingly in the headlines nationally and in the North West.
He said: “Warrington is facing big issues with infrastructure, ranging from flood defences and transport to the future of Port Warrington and the Atlantic Gateway, not to mention the town’s part in the Northern Powerhouse.
“The Institution of Civil Engineers has a duty to bring all the knowledge and expertise of its 6,000 North West members into the public realm and help decision-makers reach the best possible decisions on these crucial issues that affect everybody in their everyday lives.”
Firming up plans on devolution and infrastructure, ICE North West is already firming-up plans to bring together experts from all around the region, including from Warrington Borough Council and important Warrington-based companies, to debate what forms of devolution would best help deliver the infrastructure that society needs – from improving public transport to boosting the economy and ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply.