IT is notable that the ongoing debates and commentaries in the media and elsewhere on the merits or otherwise of the proposed HS2 London to Birmingham railway line usually overlook any reference to the eventual capital finance to be absorbed on this project. The original estimated figure of £32billion, which was promoted some four years ago, is overdue for a radical update, and since the project is apparently planned for completion over a period of 13 years or so, the above budget is surely unrealistic, particularly when the customary tendency for Government-sponsored projects to grossly overspend is factored into the ultimate costs.

James G Boyle, C Eng, Flint Way, Prestwood