The National Audit Office (NAO), which is the taxpayers’ watchdog, has completed its investigation into the East West Rail (EWR) project and published their report on Wednesday.
Richard Fuller MP said:
I met with the NAO earlier this year to push for an investigation and I am pleased they found it worthwhile.
Their report has two main conclusions. First, that there are major problems with government having two different, competitive and uncoordinated approaches to growth in the region. Second, that the business case is very weak and lacks clarity on the so called “strategic” benefits.
After six years and £1bn spent, it is still not clear what the the benefits of the East West Project are or how they will be achieved.
I led a cross party group of MPs calling on the government to pursue a more sustainable approach to growth focused on creating a network of work/life balanced communities centred on Cambridge that are consistent with our net zero commitments.
The NAO report is further evidence that East West Rail is in serious trouble and all taxpayers should be cautious about this potentially scandalous waste of money.
Richard spoke to BBC Three Counties Radio summarising what this investigation means. This can be heard here at: https://youtu.be/yQtHX0j60t8, 42 seconds in.
The NAO's report can be read here.
