Milda Manomaityte, Chief Executive of ACE, said: “ACE welcomes the Chancellor’s commitment to fiscal devolution and cheaper, cleaner energy, which shows the government understands that energy is the foundation of growth in every part of the country and decisions on local infrastructure are better made locally.

“The ambition is right. The infrastructure sector needs a stable, fully funded pipeline, clarity on the private investment models government expects us to rely on, and certainty that these commitments will survive the next fiscal event.

“Devolution is the defining theme of this Budget. Moving money and power closer to communities works if mayors and local authorities have the capacity and long-term settlements to plan and design schemes properly.

“Getting design right at the start is the best way to save money later. ACE will work constructively on behalf of members with the government to ensure devolution delivers for local communities.”