Multiplex takes battle with Cleveland Bridge to Appeal Court

Wembley main contractor Multiplex launched a Court of Appeal challenge to an earlier High Court ruling relating to the cost of work done on the stadium’s roof today.

In the latest round of Multiplex’s complex litigation over the delay and spiralling cost of the Wembley project with Darlington-based steel contractor Cleveland Bridge UK, manufacturers of the stadium’s landmark arch, the contractor is appealing a January decision on a preliminary skirmish in the case.

The latest courtroom clash focuses on who bears the cost for temporary work done on the construction of the stadium roof. 

In January, High Court judge Mr Justice Rupert Jackson ruled that Multiplex, which took Cleveland Bridge off the project in 2004, were responsible for the "cost and risk inherent" in the temporary roof work.

However, Multiplex argues that, under its original subcontract, the design and fabrication of all temporary works was Cleveland Bridge’s responsibility.

The Australian company’s lawyer Roger Steward QC told the court today that the judge had failed properly to understand the terms of an agreement between Multiplex and Cleveland Bridge in February 2004, under which Multiplex agreed to pay Cleveland Bridge a lump sum of £12m for a “schedule”, or list, of subcontracted projects.

He said: “Our case is and has always been that the erection of temporary work fell within the schedule.”

The Appeal Court is expected to reserve its decision, in order to give it in writing at a later date.