If you buy a copy of Joanna's new DVD, you will see that the aircraft is being rebuilt to a much higher standard than original. That's because the legislation of today requires it. The VOC will effectively be running to a one aeroplane airline standard.
The team are replacing anything and everything which requires change. The also discovered evidence of poor workmanship in the first place (such as the bomb bay heating system) and also had to remove some components which were never expected to need removal (such as oxygen pipework). Just watch the guys worming their way into the bowels of the jet to get at the parts which needed inspecting or changing - that's dedication for you.
The OEMs promised what they could - but they could not reasonably be expected to put aside revenue generating normal work when the necessary work (such as elevon repairs) proved to be more than was originally anticipated.
Yes, perhaps a better update and information system should have been in place. But rest assured that the first flight will be quite soon now - and please remind folk that any contributions are always welcome. Incidentally, £65K was raised by VTS Club members applying for the 15 pairs of VIP tickets to the first flight viewing, so there is definite interest in seeing the aircraft fly still out there!
See
www.tvoc.co.uk for the latest information - and please be patient for a little while longer!!