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The Railways

what a ugly sight:(
Unfortunately so, but as unlike ths original railway developers, today's designers and builders are paid a living wage and work in safety-oriented surroundings, and costs are watched carefully. If publicly funded HS2 cost were to rise by, say, 75% to make it look 'prettier' would you mind your tax rates rising to cover it?
I do not like the look of many post WW2 constructions (e.g. Madin's central library, now thankfully gone), but accept it as 'functional' rather than 'ugly'.
 
Unfortunately so, but as unlike ths original railway developers, today's designers and builders are paid a living wage and work in safety-oriented surroundings, and costs are watched carefully. If publicly funded HS2 cost were to rise by, say, 75% to make it look 'prettier' would you mind your tax rates rising to cover it?
I do not like the look of many post WW2 constructions (e.g. Madin's central library, now thankfully gone), but accept it as 'functional' rather than 'ugly'.
Lloyd, I must respectfully disagree with your comment regarding HS2 & leave it at that !
 
British railways had a very high accident rate, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries. In fact, for many decades railways were among the most dangerous major industries in Britain, both for workers (trackmen, shunters, signalmen, drivers) and for passengers.

Since the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the creation of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the accident rate in railways has dropped dramatically.
 
British railways had a very high accident rate, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries. In fact, for many decades railways were among the most dangerous major industries in Britain, both for workers (trackmen, shunters, signalmen, drivers) and for passengers.

Since the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the creation of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the accident rate in railways has dropped dramatically.
And that is a very good thing!
 
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