Norwich leader blames 'substandard work' for Hay Hill delays

The project was due to be completed earlier this year but this target has been repeatedly pushed back and metal fences still surround the site. 

City Hall and the contractors, Tarmac, have been at loggerheads over some of the work done, but the details of the dispute have remained shrouded in mystery until now. 

Mike Stonard, leader of the council, has now responded to calls for transparency and accused Tarmac of providing a second-rate service.  

He said: "There have been a whole range of issues that mean we have had to endure delays, but we have also had to pick up substandard work by the contractors.

"This is the subject of ongoing discussions."

City Hall had to step in after the new fountains started leaking (Image: Eleanor Storey) Norwich City Council is paying for the revamp of the city centre space, close to Next, Primark, McDonald's and St Peter Mancroft Church, which started in April 2023. 

The project includes improved seating, better-designed steps and a fountain. Mr Stonard said the council had to ask Tarmac to fix this when it began leaking shortly after construction.

He claimed the project had also been impacted by supply chain issues, such as delays with the shipping of specialist stonework from Portugal. 

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An artist's impression of the proposed Hay Hill revamp (Image: Norwich City Council) Mr Stonard added: "Norwich City Council are working with the contractor to resolve issues and finalise some outstanding works prior to completing handover, but it is evident from the site that these works are nearing completion. 

"The space has been transformed and the outcomes of this project justify the delivery costs."

Mike Stonard, leader of Norwich City Council (Image: Steve Adams) It was revealed earlier this month that City Hall is in a contractual wrangle with Tarmac, but all parties were reluctant to answer questions about the increasingly acrimonious dispute.

Norfolk County Council is also involved in attempts to resolve the situation.

Tarmac has confirmed the area will be reopening "within the next couple of weeks".