Galliford Try in new bid to rid delayed scheme of legionella

Galliford Try has retaken control of the water system at a delayed south coast care project in an attempt to solve a stubborn legionella problem.

Due to have been completed in 2023, Worthing Integrated Care Centre (WICC) was handed over to the NHS in December last year, after Galliford Try thought it had fixed the issue.

But fresh traces of legionella bacteria were detected in its water supply earlier this year and Galliford Try has now fitted a new, larger water pump, which it believes may resolve the fault.

It has also formally accepted the system back under its control to carry out further remedial work.

Sophie Cox, leader of Worthing Borough Council, said: “We understand how frustrating the delays are for everyone involved in this project ─ the NHS, the GP surgeries relocating and patients, as well as the wider public.

“I can assure everyone that we are extremely frustrated too by these continued delays, but it’s vital all these safety issues are fixed before the building opens to the public.”

The council said the system would not be accepted back until it was proven to be fully safe and functional.

It said: “Galliford Try is contractually responsible for the design, construction and compliance of the water system at the WICC.

“The problems with that system have been complex and the contractor has accepted the system back into its control to sort out.”

Tenants, including Sussex Community NHS Foundation Trust, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and Worthing Medical Group, have refused to enter into leases while the bacteria remains present.

The council confirmed in April that the project’s budget had risen from an original £34m to nearly £46m to cover specialist inspections and any legal costs required to protect its contractual interests.

Under the development agreement, the council may be entitled to recover liquidated damages of £22,366 per week for the delays, although the extent of any recovery is yet to be determined.