Multiplex refutes Cleveland Bridge claims

Multiplex has refuted claims that work on the Wembley Stadium project will be affected by Cleveland Bridge's decision to cease working on the scheme.

In a statement issued this afternoon, the project's main contractor said: "Multiplex confirms today that work at Wembley continues as normal. 

"Recent media reports have suggested that work, in particular on steel production and erection, may be slowed or halted after speculation regarding an alleged dispute between Multiplex and Cleveland Bridge. Although Cleveland Bridge has unilaterally decided to cease work and claims to have instructed its solicitors to issue proceedings against Multiplex, Multiplex has received no notice of those proceedings. If and when it does, they will be rigorously defended."

Multiplex added that there is a considerable amount of steel stored at the site so there will be no delay in on-site production. Nor will there be any impact upon the opening date of the stadium, scheduled for January 2006, the statement said. 

"Claims that the steel work costs will increase as a result of Cleveland Bridge not working on the project are incorrect," Multiplex said.