Spending Review 2025: Anything for Us?

Chancellor Rachel Reeves has unveiled the 2025 Spending Review, promising a shift in focus from austerity to long-term growth and productivity. The announcement included major commitments to infrastructure, innovation, and workforce development — all of which could have positive implications for businesses in the UK amusement, hospitality, and leisure sectors.

Investment in Coastal & Regional Infrastructure

As part of a £120 billion capital programme, the government has pledged significant investment in regional and transport infrastructure. While specific allocations are yet to be detailed, local authorities and transport hubs in coastal towns are expected to benefit, supporting increased tourism and accessibility — key drivers for arcades, FECs, and seafront amusements.

Chancellor Reeves also confirmed £350 million for community amenities, including parks, libraries, and swimming pools, reinforcing support for vibrant, family-friendly destinations.

£1.2 Billion Per Year for Skills & Apprenticeships

In a move welcomed by many in the sector, the government announced a record commitment of £1.2 billion annually by the end of the spending period to support over one million young people into training and apprenticeships. For the leisure and amusement industries — which rely heavily on skilled technical support, front-of-house staff, and machine engineers — this represents a critical opportunity to develop new talent pipelines and address ongoing staffing shortages.

£2 Billion for “Home-Grown AI”

The Chancellor also confirmed a £2 billion investment in UK-based artificial intelligence development, positioning AI as a key driver of future jobs and economic transformation. While the immediate implications for the amusements sector may seem abstract, operators increasingly exploring data-led insights, dynamic pricing, predictive maintenance, and player engagement systems may benefit from this investment in the medium term.

Ms Reeves said the technology could help “solve diverse and daunting challenges” and create “good jobs”, reinforcing AI’s cross-sector potential.

Support Across the Nations

In a bid to ensure UK-wide development, the following allocations were confirmed:

• Scotland: £52 billion

• Wales: £23 billion

• Northern Ireland: £20 billion

This funding will support devolved government projects across public services, infrastructure, and regional growth — and should offer potential opportunities for amusement and leisure businesses in those regions to tap into local regeneration initiatives.

Looking Ahead

For the UK’s amusement sector, the Spending Review 2025 brings encouraging signs of investment in the skills, technology, and infrastructure needed to support long-term growth. While ongoing challenges remain, the renewed focus on regional development and innovation opens the door to new partnerships, funding streams, and a stronger talent base for the industry’s future.

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12 June 2025

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