Independent panel set up to smooth London 2012 construction

An Independent Dispute Avoidance Panel (IDAP) has been set up to help avoid contractual disputes during the work to deliver the venues and infrastructure for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The expert Panel is available to help the ODA and its construction contractors to avoid any potential disputes that could impact on the delivery of the Olympic Park and other London 2012 venues. The Panel will focus on finding pragmatic solutions to problems which may arise before they become disputes that could require lengthy resolution.

The IDAP is chaired by Dr Martin Barnes, President of the Association for Project Management and originator of the form of construction contract being used by the ODA for major venues (the NEC Contract). Dr Barnes has selected a Panel made up of ten construction professionals with a wealth of experience in major projects.

A dedicated Adjudication Panel has been set up to decide dispute which have not been avoided through the IDAP. The adjudication panel is chaired by Peter Chapman and made up of experienced adjudicators appointed by the Institution of Civil Engineers based on the nominations from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, Royal Institution of British Architects, Chartered Institute of Building and the Institution of Engineering and Technology. If either party decides to challenge an adjudicator’s decision, the final tribunal is the Technology and Construction Court.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: 'Delivering the venues and infrastructure for London 2012 is a project of unprecedented scale and complexity, equivalent to building two Heathrow Terminal fives in half the time. We are exactly where we expected to be at this stage of the project with construction due to start as planned before the Beijing Games.

'Positive and open relationships with our contractors are crucial to keeping the project on track and will be even more important as more companies come on board to start building the venues.

'This independent Panel will help us and our contractors work together to identify and resolve any potential issues early.'

Independent Dispute Avoidance Panel Chairman Dr Martin Barnes said: 'The innovative approach of avoiding rather than resolving disputes is essential given the unique challenges that the ODA and its contractors face in delivering the London 2012 infrastructure and venues, particularly the immovable end date.

'The panel brings an independent perspective to helping ensure that the London 2012 projects are completed on time and within budget and enhance the reputation of UK construction.'

Notes to editors:

1. The Independent Dispute Avoidance Panel members are:

Dr Martin Barnes (Chairman)
Mr Roy Bentley
Mr Martin Davis
Mr Peter Hansford
Dr Dick Harris
Mr Bob Heathfield
Mr Lindsey Holbrook
Mr Malcolm Hutchinson
Professor Tony Ridley
Mr Richard Saxon
Mr Matthew Symes

2. All parties will still be able to resort to legal procedures – in particular, the parties will have the statutory right to refer any dispute or difference to adjudication.

3. The Adjudication Panel Members are:
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For further information please contact the Olympic Delivery Authority Press Office on +44 (0)203 2012 700 or visit the website at www.london2012.com.

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