A former Conservative Party donor and leading businessman has urged the government to follow the lead of the Labour Party on planning reform.

Writing in The Times before Wednesday’s autumn statement, Sir James Wates calls for reform of the planning system and urges government investment in UK infrastructure.

“I believe the opposition has recognised these challenges, and recent announcements on planning reform have been welcomed by many across the business community,” he writes.

“We need determined leadership to end Britain’s malaise, for this government to show leadership and match the opposition’s commitments, so that together we can realise Britain’s potential and improve the lives of businesses.”

The chancellor is expected to detail a plan on Wednesday to reduce delays to projects due to planning objections.