Fact Check: Construction of HS2 bat structure alone costs £95 million!

Fact Check: "Construction of HS2 bat structure alone costs £95 million!"

What We Know

The claim that the construction of the HS2 bat structure costs £95 million is misleading. Initially, the cost of the bat mitigation structure was estimated at £95 million back in 2019. However, as of March 2023, the price tag was revised to approximately £114.8 million due to inflation and additional costs associated with the project (Politico). Furthermore, recent estimates suggest that the total cost could rise to nearly £125 million, which includes various factors such as inflation and project delays (MSN).

Analysis

The original figure of £95 million was based on early estimates, but as the project progressed, costs have increased significantly. The UK government and HS2 Ltd have acknowledged that the current estimate is around £114.8 million, which reflects the impact of inflation and other unforeseen expenses (Politico). Critics, including government officials, have described the rising costs as "ludicrous" and indicative of broader issues within the UK's infrastructure planning (Politico).

Moreover, the claim that the bat structure alone costs £95 million does not account for the total financial implications of the project, which includes additional expenses related to design, risk management, and other associated civil works. Reports indicate that the overall costs, including these factors, could exceed £216 million when fully accounted for (New Civil Engineer).

The sources used in this analysis are credible, including government reports and reputable news outlets. However, it is essential to note that the figures can vary based on the context and the specific components of the project being referenced.

Conclusion

The claim that the construction of the HS2 bat structure alone costs £95 million is False. While this was the initial estimate, the current costs have risen significantly to approximately £114.8 million, with projections suggesting they could reach £125 million or more. Therefore, stating that the cost is solely £95 million is inaccurate and does not reflect the latest financial assessments of the project.