THE UK Government’s centre of expertise for infrastructure and major projects has produced a damning report into the rising cost of replacing Trident.

Reporting to the Cabinet Office and HM Treasury last week, the Infrastructure and Projects Authority (IPA) gave a “red” warning, meaning that successful delivery of the project “appears to be unachievable” within budget.

Previously thought to cost £1,465 million, the IPA say a further £235m is required to build the reactor cores for the four new submarines planned.

“There are major issues on project definition, schedule, budget, quality and/or benefits delivery, which at this stage do not appear to be manageable or resolvable,” they say.

Patricia Gibson, MP for North Ayrshire & Arran said: “The cost of renewing Trident is already astronomical, with the nuclear warheads priced at £20,300m, building the submarines £31,000m – with a £10,000m contingency fund – and maintenance over 30 years an eye-watering £150,000m plus.

“The IPA report shows that with severe financial overruns just to build the reactors, costs are likely to soar even higher on this unaffordable UK vanity project.

“There are many moral and political reasons for opposing nuclear weapons. On cost alone though it is simply madness to continue, especially at a time when pension ages are being hiked, disability benefits cut and public services are struggling for cash.

“Meanwhile, the waste of public money by the Ministry of Defence continues to be of concern. Last year alone more than £218 million of taxpayers money was written off on damaged equipment, cancelled contracts and financial penalties.

“This UK Tory Government needs to get a grip and ensure taxpayer’s money is spent sensibly.”