PRINCE GEORGE — Update: HDR Architecture Associates Inc. has reacted to the legal action initiated by the City of Prince George.
The company did so by providing the following statement:
HDR respectfully disagrees with the allegations by the City of Prince George in the recently filed civil claim. We believe what they assert lacks merit, and we will file a substantive response disputing the claim in due course. We cannot elaborate, as the matter is in litigation.
Earlier: The City of Prince George is taking legal action against the designer of the Canfor Leisure Pool.
The City filed the claim in BC Supreme Court due to deficiencies in the design.
In its Notice of Civil Claim , the City asserts the design of the pool was deficient, amounted to a breach of the contract between the City and the designer, and was negligent. The City claims from the designer compensation for all losses the City suffered as a result of the deficient design, including the costs of investigating the cause of the deficiencies and the costs of remedying the deficiencies.
The City has released a statement from City Manager Walter Babicz regarding the legal action:
“The City is taking this legal action to ensure we – and the taxpayers of Prince George – are not on the hook for the costs associated with repairs resulting from a faulty design.”
“At this point, we don’t know the full extent of the required repairs, nor do we have a timeline for when they may take place. What we can tell you is the pool is safe, and it will remain open for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.”
“Because the case is before the courts, we will not be able to provide any more details at this time, but will keep you updated with information as we are able.”
HDR Architecture Associates Inc has not responded to a request for comment.
