Home // Insights & Events // Bickering over defective bricks: University of Manchester v Laing O’Rourke & Others
The University of Manchester is embroiled in a £14m legal battle with Laing O’Rourke and designers over alleged defective brickwork at three of its university buildings. In this construction-focused Educate article, we consider the allegations in this case and share our practical tips on how to avoid similar issues.
The University of Manchester has claimed for damages for the costs of replacing outer brickwork across three of its university buildings, called the Jean McFarlane Building and University Place. The buildings are part of the main campus in the Oxford Road area and features the city’s largest lecture hall. Its claim is against three parties who were commissioned to design and build the buildings. In particular, the claim involves substantial issues with the brickwork against the parties as follows:
Laing O’Rourke has subsequently brought in structural engineer, Gifford, to the proceedings as a third party being the firm responsible for the design of movement joints in the allegedly defective brickwork.
The University is seeking redress to completely replace the outer brick skin on all three blocks, i.e. significant remedial works (and costs) to remedy the defects. The claim currently amounts to approximately £13.7m including the costs of remedial works and consequential losses (such costs continuing to rise for a variety of factors including the materials shortage).
The proceedings are still ongoing. We will keep you updated.
Mistakes happen but to try to avoid expensive ones like the following mitigating measures may help:
Related articles
This update is for general purposes and guidance only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. You should seek legal advice before relying on its content. Greenwoods Legal LLP is a Limited Liability Partnership, registered in England, registered number OC306912. Our registered office is Queens House, 55-56 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3LJ. A list of the members’ names is available for inspection at our offices in Peterborough, Cambridge and London. Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, SRA number 401162. Details of the Solicitors’ Codes of Conduct can be found at www.sra.org.uk. All instructions accepted by Greenwoods Legal LLP are subject to our current Terms of Business. VAT Reg No: 161 9287 89.
Get in touch with us (*Required fields)
Sign up to updates (*Required fields)