Even the chaotic Spanish have managed to build a decent high speed rail network. While they don’t have the population density of the south east of England, they seem to be much more organised. Perhaps it’s really Britain that’s chaotic, certainly when it comes to infrastructure projects that aren’t for cars?
Spain is basically empty outside of the larger cities, and property prices are often very low, so it is different.
The Netherlands is perhaps a better example. Very high population density, technical challenges due to a lot of reclaimed land, high property prices.
If they can manage it…
The Netherlands has plenty of normal rail, but actually hardly any high speed. Same problems…
?
Don’t believe me, have a look for yourself:
Valencia, Murcia… it’s quite easy to find a house for under 10k. You’ll have to renovate it, but still.