The statement, which was delivered on Wednesday (26 March 2025) by chancellor Rachel Reeves, largely did not touch on the waste industry and other public services.
The association acknowledged that we are in “uncertain times” but urged the government to address challenges that will present themselves in the “not-too-distant future”.
Ann Carruthers, president of ADEPT, commented on the global problems which threaten the UK, including the need to increase defence spending: “These are urgent requirements which need clear and decisive action because of their immediacy.
“But what must also be acknowledged is that in the not-too-distant future, other challenges including those concerning our ageing highways infrastructure, climate change adaptation, housing delivery, planning and waste management will, in their turn, also become immediate, non-negotiable issues requiring urgent spending and action.”
ADEPT called for these issues to be addressed with effective and long-term comprehensive solutions that stem from research and expertise.
The association warned that essential services, including waste management, are “being pushed to a breaking point” and that it hoped that the spring statement would acknowledge this.
Carruthers continued: “Place-based services – from roads to waste collection, housing and green spaces – are integral to supporting healthier, more sustainable communities that subsequently deliver the desired growth and prosperity the government has aspirations for.
“Yet, without adequate resources, local authorities are simply unable to deliver these critical services.
“Although this statement has not answered our pleas for the urgent reforms needed to address local government funding, ADEPT is fully committed to pushing for long term, sustainable solutions for the sector – we are ready to work alongside the government to achieve this. Only with predictable, adequate funding can we ensure the continuation of the essential services that make our places resilient, safe and supportive for everyone.”
