Hyndburn project on track despite company collapse

A BOROUGH’S flagship leisure project is still on track despite the collapse of its lead construction company councillors have been assured.

Hyndburn Council’s full meeting was told by deputy leader Cllr Noordad Aziz that urgent steps were being taken to minimise disruption to the £12.6million Wilson Sports Village scheme in Clayton-le-Moors after building firm ISG went into administration.

He said the authority and the controversial project’s main contractor Alliance Leisure were working closely together to get construction works back up and running.

The collapse of ISG on July 20 after a failed rescue attempt came just weeks after celebrations that the steel framework of the new leisure hub had been completed.

Cllr Aziz told Thursday night’s meeting: “Last Friday the council was informed that ISG, the lead contractor on the Wilson Sports Village construction project had filed a notice to enter administration.

“This unfortunate news has raised concerns across multiple sectors as ISG is a prominent national construction company that has been responsible for many significant projects for both the government and large corporations across the country.

“I would like to reassure everyone that the council’s contract for the Wilson’s Sports Village development is held with Alliance Leisure with ISG being their main construction contractor.

“I am pleased to report that Alliance Leisure has assured us that they are in a strong financial position and will be following established protocols to minimise disruption and ensure the continuity of the project.

“Earlier this week myself and the officers were involved in meetings with Alliance Leisure as the council works closely with them to ensure a smooth transition during this difficult time.

“Alliance Leisure is prioritising the necessary preparations to restart the project successfully.

“In conjunction with Ernst and Young the appointed administrators they are ensure that the site remains safe and secure; that sports clubs and community groups can use the existing facilities as normal without interruptions and that a comprehensive action plan is produced to inform the council of the steps needed to restart construction promptly.

“The council and Alliance Leisure are fully committed to focusing efforts on getting the construction site back to operational status and we are putting great emphasis on minimising any impact or disruption to the project.

“We are determined to deliver the Wilson Sport Village as planned as it is now an asset for this council.”