Both employers and contractors need to be considering the current legal framework and practical steps to minimise risk when it comes to dealing with project suspensions or cancellations, write solicitors Jarleth Heneghan and Cassandra Byrne, Projects and Construction, William Fry.

Reduced availability of project finance, coupled with shifting economic, political and compliance considerations, is prompting parties to consider project suspension or cancellation. Spending time settling a contract reduces potential fall-out if a project takes a turn for the worse. This is equally relevant for both existing and new construction projects.