It is a few years late, but on a 10 year program. And it is only around 25% over budget. That is a lot of money to be sure. But compared to other government or corporate programs it seems pretty good. And it will deliver real measurable benefits to people. Both in terms of travel and economic stimulus. The UK is probably spending more on failed corporate ERP systems every year than the over spend on Crossrail.
And we can do manor projects because we are doing major projects. There is Thames Tideway, London Power Tunnels, several offshore wind farms and interconnectors, Great Western electrification, 2012 Olympics.
Let's not forget Hinckley C being built and possibly the go-ahead for Sizewell C later this year. Both projects are vital in the fight against climate change. I'd sleep easier at nights if we could build two more in addition and mini reactors dotted around the country.
Being 25% over budget when the programme is already extortionately expensive compared to similar infrastructure projects in other countries. And each time we do "another one" it's even more expensive than the last. There is an entire industry purpose designed for ripping off the tax payer.
> extortionately expensive compared to similar infrastructure projects in other countries
Can you make a few comparisons to similar infrastructure projects in other countries to illustrate this point? Make sure those countries have similar safety protections for workers, and labour rights, of course.
I can trump that! Maybe 1990(ish) - I worked as a cycle courier in London and one of my regular clients was Crossrail where I carried plans from one office to another.
And we can do manor projects because we are doing major projects. There is Thames Tideway, London Power Tunnels, several offshore wind farms and interconnectors, Great Western electrification, 2012 Olympics.