Foster demands end to Spa 'Civil War'

1.59.28pm GMT Tue 1st Feb 2005

Bath's MP, Don Foster, has written, in strong terms, to the Chief Executive of Mowlem PLC and Sir Nicholas Grimshaw to demand an end to the "civil war" between the companies that is holding up completion of the Bath Spa Project.

Commenting, Don said,

"The time it took to resolve the peeling paint problems was excessive and now deadlock has been reached again - this time over leaking floors! We are all extremely frustrated by the apparent civil war between the contractors and the architects. After at least 6 months since this latest problem was identified, there appears to be virtually no progress in resolving the faults and opening the building.

"In most construction projects there are disputes, but these are normally managed with only limited impact on progress. The people of Bath are fed up that the primary concern appears to be sorting out who's to blame rather than completing the scheme.

"Further delays are inexplicable and inexcusable.

"Whatever the difficulties, the contractors and the architect must bury the hatchet, resolve the issues and complete the Project.

"I've asked Mowlems and Grimshaws for a clear account of steps that are being taken to resolve the outstanding issues and for an anticipated completion date.

"It's time for the construction industry to come up with constructive approaches, and get the Spa open!