Crossfield ditched on £3.1m Crosby leisure development 

Sefton Council has restarted its search for a contractor to redevelop Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre after terminating the construction firm’s contract amid “unacceptable delays”. 

Crossfield Construction was appointed to redevelop the adventure centre in February.  

Liverpool City Region Combined Authority is to fund the project, which will see the creation of new hospitality and event facilities, reception areas, overnight accommodation and upgraded M&E. 

However, Crossfield has now had its contract terminated by the council, a decision the contractor said was “disappointing”. 

A statement from Sefton Council said: “Unfortunately, owing to Crossfield Construction’s unacceptable delays and failure to satisfactorily progress the works on the redevelopment of Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre, the council has terminated its employment under their contract. 

“This is a difficult decision, which we realise may have a knock-on effect on local firms subcontracted to Crossfield. We understand and share the frustrations that those subcontractors may have.” 

In response, Crossfield told Place North West it had tried to negotiate an extension to its contract with the council and that it was “wholly committed” to the project. 

“The news of the purported termination of our contact is disappointing,” a spokesperson from Crossfield said. 

“Our industry, both nationally and UK-wide, is having to overcome some significant challenges as we continue to navigate the Covid-19 pandemic. Work has been continuing on site at Crosby Lakeside and we are keen to keep an open dialogue with the council to further understand their concerns and work towards a resolution of this matter.” 

However, the council confirmed the project would be delayed until next year, having originally hoped it would complete by autumn this year. Sefton added that the decision to sack Crossfield was “in line with the council’s duty to protect the interests of local council tax payers and its assets”. 

“The council has worked proactively with the contractor to try to resolve its issues and ensure progression of the project. The decision could not have been communicated earlier, due to the legal and commercial nature of negotiations with the contractor. 

“Sefton Council is implementing its contingency plan to complete the scheme and ensure delivery of a first-class asset and the benefits it brings, for residents and visitors, as safely, quickly and economically as possible.”