Why German building projects run over time and budget
Deutsche Welle
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Germany's large-scale construction projects frequently face significant delays and cost overruns, a problem highlighted by several high-profile examples. The new Berlin airport, initially planned for five years, took fourteen to complete. Stuttgart's central station remains unfinished after sixteen years, while the Elbphilharmonie concert hall in Hamburg required nine times its original timeline. These delays have led to skyrocketing costs, with some projects exceeding their budgets tenfold.
One major cause is the complexity of these projects, involving numerous companies and intricate planning. For instance, Cologne's opera house renovation involved 64,000 square meters, 2,000 rooms, and over 58 different trades. This complexity often results in rework due to design flaws or inadequate permissions. Additionally, the rigid tendering process, which prioritizes the cheapest bids, can lead to contractor insolvencies, causing further delays as new contracts are negotiated.
Communication breakdowns exacerbate these issues. Project leaders like Jürgen Marc Volm highlight that while Germany excels in technical problem-solving, communication among stakeholders is often poor. This lack of coordination leads to continuous changes and inefficiencies. Environmental and safety regulations also contribute to the challenges, adding significant costs and time without clear oversight.
The broader implications extend beyond Germany's borders, as its reputation for efficient engineering is being challenged. Reiner Holznagel of Germany's Taxpayers Federation notes that large projects are no longer completed quickly or effectively, raising concerns about accountability and resource management. This issue is not new; historical examples like the Cologne Cathedral, which took six centuries to complete,
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/14/2026