Infrastructure is the basic physical networks and facilities that a society, economy or development needs in order to function, such as roads, railways, water and wastewater systems, energy, telecommunications and flood defences.
In UK construction, infrastructure projects are usually delivered under civil engineering contracts, commonly the NEC suite, and measured using civil engineering methods of measurement such as CESMM rather than building rules. Clients are often regulated utilities, public bodies or network operators, and work is frequently let through long term frameworks. At site level the term also covers the roads, drainage and utility connections needed to serve a development, which can be a major cost and risk item in early estimates. Surveyors also advise on the condition and suitability of infrastructure assets and premises, and on the associated liabilities and risks.
Related terms: Civil Engineering, NEC, CESMM, Enabling Works.
