A COMPANY involved in a £132m project to transform Southampton city centre was ordered to stop work three weeks before it went into administration.
Henry Construction Projects was slapped with two prohibition notices by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which raised concerns relating to the Bargate Quarter scheme.
HSE accused the company of failing to ensure the safety of people working on the huge construction project.
Issued on May 16, the notices said platforms at the site lacked guard rails to prevent falls. They also said an area known as B Block was not equipped with a fire detection and alarm system, despite "hot works" involving flammable substances.
On June 8 Henry Construction Projects filed for administration.
It came after the Hounslow-based company was fined £234,000 following an incident in London in 2021 in which a demolition worker fell from a platform and was seriously injured.
READ MORE: Work on £132m project to transform part of Southampton city centre has stalled
The Bargate Quarter scheme comprises 519 new homes - a mix of studios, one, two, and three-bedroom units - along with 2,515 square metres of ground floor commercial space.
Hailed as "crucial" for the city it is expected to create 115 jobs and contribute £5.5m to the local economy.
In a statement the developer, Tellon Capital, said it was working to secure the "best possible outcome" for the project.
"We are currently in discussions with potential contractors who will take over and complete the project.
"As this is a substantial site, we are committed to selecting a new contractor that aligns with our vision and ensures the delivery of a high-quality development for one of the most historic parts of Southampton.
READ MORE: Bargate Quarter scheme - Henry Construction Projects goes into administration
"We understand the importance of timely progress and assure all stakeholders that we are expediting the process of appointing a new contractor.
"However, we must acknowledge that the transition will require careful consideration, and embedding a new contractor will take some time.
"Tellon Capital cannot comment on matters relating to Henry Construction's administration and the reasons behind it. Our focus is on the future and the successful completion of the Bargate Quarter development."
Tellon said it remained dedicated to creating a landmark scheme that would bring lasting benefits to Southampton.
It added: "We will provide further updates on the appointment of the new contractor and the development's progress at the appropriate time."
Royston Smith, Tory MP for Southampton Itchen, has described it as one of the city's most important projects.
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