Where public sector projects are delivered well the results are impressive. The progress of the Olympics construction programme1 and the introduction of the Asset Protection Scheme2 are good examples. However, the evidence shows that two-thirds of public sector projects are completed late, over budget or do not deliver the outcomes expected.
Some are cancelled before they are completed after spending considerable sums of money with little to show for it.3 Poorly performing projects reflect badly on government, attract high media interest and are poor value for money for the taxpayer. The track record of project delivery in the private sector is equally mixed.
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1 Preparations for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Progress report December 2011, HC 1596, Session 2010-12.
2 The Asset Protection Scheme (HC 567, 2010-11).
3 Failure of the Fire Control Project (HC 1272, 2010-12).