Saints frustrated by stadium advisers
St Helens have issued a statement regarding the incomplete cladding work at their Langtree Park home.
Saints moved in to the brand new 18,000 capacity stadium at the start of the new season, playing their first game there against Widnes in a pre-season friendly in January.
But despite being widely welcomed as an asset to the sport of rugby league – it will host the opening International Origin match between England and the Exiles on Saturday – there is still outstanding work to be done on the ground.
The statement read: “The Club has had to refrain todate from public comment on the intended additional cladding to Langtree Park due to legal and contractual restrictions. In particular, the Club is considering legal action against its former project adviser, Complete Construction Management (CCM), in relation to cost estimates and other related advice.
“The Club is also awaiting the final production of a structural engineers report relating to the roof, as a necessary pre–condition. Furthermore, the one year contractual defects period expires in October 2012 and the Club now needs to await the expiration of this also.
“That said; the Club will invest further in the necessary cladding in order to protect fans from the elements to the extent necessary and practical. This is the case even though the projected cost is likely to be materially higher than first advised. This will now have to go ahead in the close season; the additional funding is earmarked.
“We understand fans’ frustration but have been unable to provide public updates.
“The original design of the stadium was in its existing state and that was what planning permission was obtained for and was what the club purchased. It is clear, however, that additional work is necessary, and this will be carried out to improve the outlook and comfort of the new stadium further.
“As part of the process the Club will also carry out market research from season ticket holders as to their experience and suggestions after a first full year in the stadium in order that we continually look to improve service.”
St Helens won their first competitive game at the new ground against Salford, and in April registered their biggest victory at Langtree Park, thumping Widnes 62-0.
It was also the scene of probably the most dramatic moment in Super League this season, when Catalan Dragons scored an unlikely try after the hooter to snatch victory from the hosts.