Hong Kong reserves right to seek compensation over hospital lift delays

Hong Kong authorities have reserved the right to seek compensation from contractors over faulty lift installation work that has delayed operations at Queen Mary Hospital’s new block, the development minister has said.

Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn Hon-ho said on Tuesday that the main contractor, a Paul Y-Able joint venture, and lift subcontractor Anlev Elex Elevator would be required to bear all costs of remedial work, ensuring public expenditure on the project would not increase.

The full commissioning of the hospital’s new HK$13.5 billion (US$1.7 billion) block has been delayed by up to a year after serious defects left 24 of its 28 lifts unfit for use.

The delay has prevented medical departments from moving into the facility, where a blood bank and restaurants remain open.

“Since deficiencies in the construction work have been identified, the relevant works departments will, in accordance with the contract, reserve the right to pursue claims for compensation,” Linn said.