Berlin's new international airport is likely to face further delays due to the insolvency of Dutch engineering group Royal Imtech's German division and problems with the construction of the new roof, which led to an immediate halt in building.
Imtech Deutschland GmbH & Co filed for insolvency after failing to secure credit from lenders, adding to a list of problems for its parent company. Imtech's staff at Berlin Airport have been working on heating and ventilation systems and the insolvency could affect the airport's construction, which is due for completion in March 2016.
The airport, originally due to open in 2012, has been under construction since 2006 and is jointly owned by the city of Berlin, the state of Brandenburg and Germany's federal government. Local prosecutors are investigating Imtech Deutschland's work at the airport for suspicion of bribery. Proceedings are ongoing.
Problems with the weight of some of the new roof's panels covering the main terminal led to a temporary halt in construction, but building subsequently resumed by order of the authorities. Even though construction continues, rumours remain that further postponement of the start date for airport operations tomid-2017 will be required due to ongoing difficulties.
For further information on this topic please contact Oliver Nissen at Arnecke Sibeth by telephone (+49 30 814 59 13 00) or email ([email protected]). The Arnecke Sibeth website can be accessed at www.arneckesibeth.com.
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