This is the published time line from the second consultation held autumn and winter 2019
Summer 2018 non-statutory consultation
2018 – 2019 Ongoing technical engagement and publication of response to feedback
Autumn/winter 2019 Statutory consultation * now
Early 2020 Ongoing technical engagement
Mid 2020 Submission of DCO application for consent
Late 2020 – mid-2021 Examination of DCO application by Planning Inspectorate
Late 2021 Recommendation by Planning Inspectorate and decision by Secretary of State for Transport
2022 Start of construction, subject to planning approval
The DCO process was costed at £50m, I seem to remember reading that this has increased to £70m, as a third consultation gets under way.
It is called a consultation in name only but is used as a reason for changing plans when propositions and proposals become unaffordable and not because of opposition.