Editor’s comment
Infrastructure strategy says all the right things, but…
Government has started discussions on a proposed Infrastructure Strategy, that says most of the right things. But Editor Nick Barrett advises holding fire on judgement for now.
News
Our regular news round up focusses on a new planning reform working paper; delays on an investment decision for Sizewell C; and accusations that clients are failing to engage with the post-Grenfell building safety regime.
Legal terms explained
Jason Han of Herbert Smith Freehills LLP explains what is meant by Pure Economic Loss.
Guest editor
Navigating the challenges and contractual landscape in the offshore wind industry
Guest Editor James Cameron of Pinsent Masons welcomes a new FIDIC contract that is expected this year, which will address some of the issues facing the offshore wind industry. The sector is also one that should benefit from current government promises to limit the use of judicial reviews that can substantially delay project progress.
Legislation state of play table
Our regular update on the progress of regulations and legislation affecting construction and procurement compiled by Alignment Media.
Reports from the courts
Our regular round up of the court decisions of most interest to construction comes from Andrew Croft, Ben Spannuth and Daniela Miklova of Beale & Company Solicitors LLP who examine one that may result in an increase in fire safety disputes being referred to adjudication; and an appeal court judgment that clarifies the meaning and application of wording which is often used in construction all risks policies.
Analysis
The construction adjudicator of the future
Mike Waring, construction specialist and partner at Knights, explores the concept of the AI Adjudicator-bot and delves into how AI can enhance case management, with a particular focus on its application in adjudication.
CL guides
Construction Law Guide to JCT Contracts
Our latest Construction Law Guides series article comes from Rachel Chaplin of DLA Piper UK LLP who looks at the Joint Contracts Tribunal range of contracts.
Review of 2024
Review of construction law in 2024
Our review of the construction law year comes from Andrew Croft, Ben Spannuth, Daniela Miklova, Kayleigh Rhodes, and Anna Benz of Beale & Company Solicitors LLP. The courts saw a lot of activity and there were significant developments relating to building safety.
Scottish construction law review of 2024
Shona Frame and Heather Gibson of CMS review the most significant construction law related developments in Scotland in 2024, of which there were more than a few. A raft of new legislation, significant court decisions and regulatory changes kept lawyers on their toes.
Adjudication
‘Rational businesspeople’ always trust in Fiona
Jane Hughes and Greg Barton of Trowers & Hamlins LLP analyse a TTC decision handed down late in 2024 holding that claims under the Defective Premises Act can be adjudicated. It suggests that parties should ensure they retain records for up to 30 years after practical completion.
Remediation
Remediation Acceleration Plan: mid-rise buildings, high-stakes reform
Dev Desai and Rupi Chandla of Watson Farley & Williams LLP explain what is required under the government’s Remediation Acceleration Plan (RAP) for mid-rise buildings. The RAP risks a plethora of regulations, proposals and guidance which risks muddying the waters further, they warn.
Insurance
Insuring Collateral Warranties
In this examination of collateral warranty related insurance our insurance expert John D Wright of JD Risk Associates explains issues arising from the extended limitation periods applicable under the Building Safety Act.
Alternative dispute resolution
Dispute Review Boards updates
Our latest Alternative Dispute Resolution series article comes from Sarah Alexander of Dentons UK and Middle East LLP who reports on some interesting updates relating to the appointment and use of dispute review boards.