News and expert comment on public policy and finance

Transport features

The whole pictureThe aim of the infrastructure code isn't just to help councils finish their Whole of Government Accounts. It should also to help them manage their assets better 01 April 2012
Weak foundationsInvestment in infrastructure is the chancellor's way of providing a necessary stimulus to the flatlining economy. But how does he intend to find the funds without dipping into the public purse or using the unpopular PFI? Mark Hellowell reports 01 February 2012
On the fast-track?Justine Greening has been propelled to the top role in transport, just in time to oversee the controversial high-speed line planned between London and Birmingham. She will have a tough job defending its financial and green credentials, says Christian Wolmar 01 November 2011
Winning waysThe successful early completion of the main Olympic venues came as a pleasant surprise to many people. Let's hope the rest of the public sector learns from this 01 September 2011
The road to the codeThe true value of council roads and bridges is currently tricky to determine, hence the move from historical to current cost accounting 01 June 2011
Through a glass, lightlyShould the public sector start drowning its sorrows as the cuts kick in? Doom merchants certainly seem to think so. But perhaps in reality the glass is half full and not half empty. Tony Travers finds some reasons to be cheerful 18 November 2010
Digging deepAll the major parties are promising big investment in infrastructure. But with private finance paralysed and cuts in public spending, where are they going to get the money from? Mark Hellowell investigates 29 April 2010
Full speed ahead?The high-speed rail white paper confirmed that despite the recession the massive government investment programme is being given the green light. Christian Wolmar reports 18 March 2010
Structural deficitA long list of essential infrastructure projects is crying out for attention, but traditional funding sources are drying up. Mark Hellowell asks whether the new government agency Infrastructure UK can really come to the rescue 28 January 2010
One-track mindEven before this week's snowstorms, Britain's railways were heading into heavy financial weather. 06 February 2009
So what would you do in 2009?Everyone has a view on the government's mistakes. But coming up with solutions is another matter. 16 January 2009
A lost cause? By Tash ShifrinKeeping citizens' data centrally seemed such a good idea. It could help to catch terrorists, protect children, save patients' lives, and stop people from providing the same details to different departments. But then the government started losing files. 01 January 2008
An Olympian task, by David GoldstoneThe London Olympics present a financial challenge like no other combining a global sporting event with a major regeneration project. But to achieve its goals the Games will need substantial private investment 01 January 2008
Built to last, by Neil MerrickThe idea of 'lifetime homes' designed to meet the needs of older or disabled residents is fast catching on. But how about the costs to developers and first-time buyers? Neil Merrick investigates 01 January 2008
Coming to the crunch, by Paul GoslingThe crisis in the markets has left a trail of financial giants in tatters. Public services, especially those with Icelandic investments, are feeling the strain. Paul Gosling reports on how the sector is preparing for the worst 01 January 2008