BUSINESS leaders have pressed the Government to increase spending on roads amid warnings the economy is being hit by overstretched infrastructure.
A survey by the EEF manufacturers' organisation showed most firms want investment in roads ahead of high-speed rail.
The poll of more than 200 manufacturers also revealed frustration with the Coalition's airports policy, saying decisions on future capacity should be speeded up.
Half of firms said their operating costs were increased because of the state of the roads.
Fewer than one in four of those questioned said investment in high-speed rail was important to their company's growth.
The EEF called for an independent infrastructure commission to be set up, and said a greater share of public spending should be allocated to roads.
Roger Salomone, the EEF's head of business environment policy, said: "The road network is the backbone of the economy but it has been neglected.
"The majority of firms are reporting that the state of the nation's roads is increasing their operating costs."
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