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HS2 Bat Tunnel Costs Soar to £125 Million

6/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The HS2 "bat tunnel" in Buckinghamshire has seen its costs soar to £125 million, far surpassing initial projections due to inflation. This ambitious project, intended to safeguard 13 bat species, including the endangered Bechstein’s bat, has faced backlash over its hefty price tag. In response, the government plans to simplify regulations for future infrastructure endeavors.

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Story summary

The HS2 "bat tunnel" in Buckinghamshire has seen its costs soar to £125 million, far surpassing initial projections due to inflation. This ambitious project, intended to safeguard 13 bat species, including the endangered Bechstein’s bat, has faced backlash over its hefty price tag. In response, the government plans to simplify regulations for future infrastructure endeavors.