Mega-projects need some clear thinking
WALES’ infrastructure movers and shakers have been invited to examine the knotty subject of infrastructure development at a conference initiated by the Institute of Welsh Affairs (IWA).
Announcements about infrastructure development over of the past 10 days or so are testament to there still being a need for solutions. They must include: joined-up, clear thinking; openness, and a willingness to learn from the experiences of other countries in planning and successfully delivering mega-projects to budget and on time.
The lack of joined-up, clear thinking starts with the Secretary of State for Transport’s decision to abandon electrifying the rail line beyond Cardiff; so that the use of diesel locomotives will continue until replaced by hybrid diesel and electrical ones. It is followed by an announcement that diesel and petrol-driven cars will be phased out within 22 years. If the hybrid locomotives are similarly phased out will that represent good value from the investment?
It continues with the sop announcement that abolishing tolls at the Severn Bridge would benefit Wales by reducing congestion at that point of entry into South Wales. However, it took no account of the traffic flow increasing congestion at the west-bound Brynglas Tunnels, which is unlikely to be alleviated in time by a “Newport bypass”.
The Secretary of State for Transport’s vow, based on the country’s experience on major projects, that HS2 will be delivered on time and to budget is flawed for two reasons. Firstly, a quick search of the record shows the experience is not a good one. They include the Channel Tunnel, a project on which I worked. Secondly,the Department of Transport’s refusal to disclose the budgeted amount of money and the time for completion renders the vow meaningless.
For an example of a mega-project that was delivered on time and to budget Mr Grayling and Welsh Government ministers might look to the award winning Phase 1 of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, to which, I am proud to say, six men of Welsh birth or descent made a contribution. These are also two good reasons why the Welsh Government should study the project: that is without considering the close ties many people in Wales have with Lesotho. Derek Griffiths Cardiff