Out of interest and I know its a daft suggestion, but given the possible weakening of the structure etc, the QE and P of W were built modular ( as in the picture below ) I realise the ships were fitted out after assembly, but could they not simply construct new sections if needed and then cut and insert those into the ship? that way the sections could be fitted out and built off hull as the hull is being stripped ready to accept them? Barking I know, but stranger things have happened in life.