Industry reaction

Rail union TSSA slammed the Government over the report, which came one day after Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps announced £950 million funding for the route. The union branded it “a reannouncement”, as this was already part of the Strategic Rail Plan.

“Passengers have been waiting for upgrades since the need was first identified in 2011. Today’s NAO report shows they could still be waiting for the upgrades in 2041. That is outrageous,” said TSSA General Secretary Manuel Cortes.

The Railway Industry Association said: “The report highlights some important lessons that need to be taken on board. These include the fact that it has taken too long for government to decide how to upgrade the route, and this has led to abortive cost.

“RIA supports the crossindustry Rail SPEED initiative, which should help accelerate decision-making in future projects.”