The Week That Was - 5 September 2025

Welcome to The Week That Was, a round-up of key events in the construction sector over the last seven days.

McLaren secures £280m Contract to build Cardiff Arena and hotel

The McLaren Construction Group has been confirmed as the main contractor for the £280 million Cardiff Bay Arena, formally approved in August 2025, with construction estimated to begin this year. The arena, to be located in Atlantic Wharf near the Wales Millennium Centre, will feature a 16,500-capacity multi-purpose venue.

Designed by Populous and HOK, the project is part of a larger regeneration plan that includes a digital arts theatre, a 182-room hotel, multi-storey car park, offices, and housing.  Construction is projected to span four phases, with the arena expected to open around 2028.

To read more, please click here. 

Graham appointed as main contractor

Construction group, Graham, has been appointed to act as principal contractor in respect of the Central Docks neighbourhood within Peel Waters' £5bn Liverpool Waters development.  According to its website, Graham 'deliver complex multimillion pound projects in construction, civil engineering, interior fit-out, facilities management and investments'.  

Central Docks, which is 10.5 hectares, is the largest brownfield plot in Liverpool. Intending to unlock land for around 2,350 new homes, it is the biggest of five neighbourhoods planned within the wider scheme.

To read more, please click here.

Court rejects appeal over construction damage and costs - Azizi v Dama Construction Ltd [2025] EWHC 2213 (TCC)

In this case, the central issue revolved around damage to the flank wall of Mr Azizi’s property, which was allegedly caused by Mr Azizi's refusal to grant Dama Construction access.  Mr Azizi appealed a ruling by HH Judge Saggerson, who concluded that Azizi was responsible for the damage. 

In this appeal, Mr Azizi contended that the judge had misinterpreted an expert report and failed to properly consider his submissions regarding costs and VAT. 

However, the court disagreed, affirming that the judge’s decision was well-reasoned and supported by the evidence.  Mr Azizi’s arguments regarding causation, the expert’s report, and the denial of access were found to be either inconsistent or lacking factual support.

The court also confirmed that the judge had appropriately received Mr Azizi’s submissions and had reasonably ordered a separate hearing to address costs.  Mr Azizi's challenge regarding VAT was rejected.  Ultimately, the appeal was dismissed in its entirety.

For the judgment, please click here. 

RIBA Urges UK Parliament to prioritise high-quality design in public projects

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has called for a greater focus on high-quality design in the UK Parliament's agenda, urging lawmakers to prioritise well-designed buildings and public spaces.  RIBA's campaign highlights the importance of integrating design excellence into planning and construction, with a focus on sustainability, health, and well-being.

The institute emphasises that good design is essential in creating spaces that are both functional as well as visually appealing.  In its call to Parliament, RIBA advocates for policies that encourage better design in both the public and private sectors, urging the government to lead by example by ensuring high-quality design in its own projects.

This move is in alignment with RIBA's efforts to elevate design standards across the UK and to position architecture as a driver of social, environmental, and economic benefits.

To read more, please click here. 

Updates to Government's ACM Cladding Remediation Fund

In May 2019, the UK government committed to funding the removal and replacement of unsafe ACM cladding on private sector residential buildings over 18 metres, estimating a cost of £200m.

However, from 1 September 2025, the Fund will no longer be accepting new applications.  For buildings over 11 metres in England, applicants will need to apply through the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS), managed by Homes England.

New applicants can begin their applications via the Building Remediation Hub.  The Fund will continue to process and support existing applications, and the current guidance document will remain relevant for those already in the application process.

This transition ensures that buildings under 18 metres are still able to receive funding through the CSS, while ongoing support is provided for those already engaged in the remediation process under the original ACM Fund framework.

To read more, please click here.

With thanks to Emma Donovan, Emrys Moore and Hannah McDonagh

If you have any queries please do get in contact with a member of the team below, or your usual RPC contact.

Disclaimer: The information in this publication is for guidance purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.  We attempt to ensure that the content is current as at the date of publication, but we do not guarantee that it remains up to date.  You should seek legal or other professional advice before acting or relying on any of the content.