Funny, every time we build a stadium in another part of the country it is finished on time but whenever we build a stadium, or a bridge, or an art gallery, or a white elephant in London it is always late and overbudget. Yet we insist on putting ALL national buildings in London.
Bloody ridiculous. Of course when 90% of the country’s major journalists live and work in London you can’t expect them to be aware that anywhere else exists…
I’d have thought more of British expertise and efficiency… Doesn’t matter that much, though, there must be a good reason. I’m sure it wasn’t laziness that triggered it. Arsenal are building their new stadium in the exact same period and works seem to not be falling behind. I’m sure the Germans have pretty much finished all their major projects for the Weltmeisterschaft and are now sipping lager and eating pretzels. Remember, though, that the Greeks had barely finished all the preparations the night before the Olympics started, but it turned out ok. Wembley will probably be a nice piece of turf too, when it’s finished…
Nothing wrong with the British - check out the Channel Tunnel or the Eastlands project in Manchester or any number of other things, it’s just we can’t get it right in London. Too little space, too much money, not enough responsibility…
The main reason why the Wembley project is behind schedule is because of industrial action in 2004.
Arsenal’s new stadium has increased in cost beyond initial estimates, though you’re right, it is on schedule (even ahead of schedule if you believe the PR) and is a good example of what can be achieved with proper planning. Looks good too, not just another flatpack IKEA stadium like Sunderland’s or Middlesbrough’s…