, ,

‘Unrealistic’ Crossrail bosses to blame for delays

by

Massive cost increases and lengthy delays to the Crossrail project were caused by the chosen contractual model, a compressed schedule and the absence of a realistic plan for completion, according to the National Audit Office (NAO).

The NAO’s Completing Crossrail report, published on May 3, found that Crossrail Ltd was not in possession of a sufficiently detailed delivery plan until late 2018, by which time it was already clear the project would be severely delayed and well over budget.

Crossrail Class 345 units are currently limited to Liverpool St-Shenfield and Paddington-Hayes &
Harlington, but are expected to serve Reading from December 2019. Here, No. 345007 passes Royal
Oak on the approach to Paddington on May 7. Photo: Chris Milner.

Design changes and delays, requiring contractors to be on sites longer than expected, added around £2.5billion to costs between 2013 and 2018.

Article continues below…
Advert

Monthly Subscription: Enjoy more Railway Magazine reading each month with free delivery to you door, and access to over 100 years in the archive, all for just £5.35 per month.
Click here to subscribe & save

Discover the FULL story in the brand new June issue, on sale now! Click here to get hold of yours.


Advert
Subscribe to The Railway Magazine
Enjoy more of The Railway Magazine reading every month. Click here to subscribe.

Railway Reads

From the history of steam through to 21st century rail transport news, we have titles that cater for all rail enthusiasts. Covering diesels, modelling, steam and modern railways, check out our range of magazines and fantastic subscription offers.


Article Tags:

About the Author