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Monday, 5 June 2006, 15:17 GMT 16:17 UK

Ruling on Wembley stadium dispute

Work continuing on the new Wembley stadium A High Court judge has ruled that a steel firm working on the new Wembley stadium was in breach of contract when it walked off the site two years ago.

The judgement came at the end of a month-long hearing between Australian firm Multiplex and its main contractor, steelworks firm Cleveland Bridge.

Both parties claimed breach of contract and sought damages.

The judge held that Multiplex did not breach a contract and its lawyers are due to seek payment for legal costs.

The case was adjourned until Tuesday when Cleveland are expected to apply for leave to appeal.

"I have no doubt it will be a world-class sports stadium"
Mr Justice Jackson

In a complex series of findings, the judge found in favour of Cleveland in some respects but Multiplex won on the major issue of breach of contract.

Cleveland Bridge, the firm behind the iconic steel arch, left the project in August 2004 citing breach of contract.

It was seeking £22.6m in damages for lost earnings.

Multiplex, which partly blamed its former partner for delays to the 90,000-seat stadium, was attempting to sue Cleveland for up to £45m.

During the hearing at London's Technology and Construction Court, Mr Justice Jackson said: "Having visited the site, I have no doubt it will be a world-class sports stadium.

"Long after these present problems, all parties can take pride in what they have created."

The £757m stadium should have been ready in August 2005 but is not likely to be finished until this September at the earliest.



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Related to this story:
Wembley builders in court battle (25 Apr 06 |  Business )
Wembley builders deny delay blame (31 Mar 06 |  SOL )
Wembley workers laid off over pay (28 Mar 06 |  London )
Wembley dismisses 'sewer problem' (23 Mar 06 |  London )
Wembley dropped for FA Cup final (21 Feb 06 |  Football )
Wembley Stadium contractor sues (03 Aug 04 |  England )

RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
Cleveland Bridge
Multiplex
HM Courts Service
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