American giant Bechtel has launched legal action against HS2 Ltd after losing out on the £1.3bn Old Oak Common station contract, according to reports.
The Sunday Times reported that the firm took the unusual step of lodging a High Court claim against its client, despite being a key partner on other aspects of the project including a £170m contract to manage the second leg of the line, which runs from the Midlands to Manchester and Leeds.
The interior of the planned Old Oak Common station
Bechtel won this work after a previous botched procurement, as a result of a perceived conflict of interests which forced HS2 Ltd to promise to tighten up its bidding procedures.
The winning bidders for the stations at Old Oak Common and Euston were announced in early February - a Balfour Beatty/Vinci/Systra JV won the Old Oak Common construction partner role, and a joint venture between Mace and Dragados won the work at Euston.
Bechtel is reported to be arguing in the technology and construction court that the scoring process was unfair.
The Old Oak Common works involve converting former railway yards into a new neighbourhood and connecting HS2 with Crossrail.
HS2 Ltd said: 'We do not comment on legal matters.'
Bechtel has been approached for comment.
Register now for full access
Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.
Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors.
Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.
Already a registered? Login
