As a result of Multiplex quality checks on the 133 metre high Arch some minor rectification works are being carried out and the Arch is still planned to be lifted in the spring of this year.

 

In the original construction schedule, it was actually planned that the Arch would be raised this summer, but the tremendous progress made since work began in September 2002 means that Multiplex have been able to move this date forward.

 

Ashley Muldoon, Project Director for Multiplex Construction UK, the main contractor for the Wembley Stadium project, said: "There are no structural problems with the construction of Wembley Stadium.  Extensive quality assurance checks are carried out on site on a regular basis.  These are procedural and on occasion, some rectification work is required. 

 

“The project is running ahead of schedule and Multiplex is confident that we will deliver it on time and to budget."

 

The first match scheduled to take place at the new Wembley is the 2006 FA Cup Final, although it could open even earlier, with an England international.

 

Michael Cunnah, Chief Executive of Wembley National Stadium Limited, said: “The new Wembley is an incredibly ambitious project, on a scale never seen before.  It will be bigger and better than any other stadium in the world and to be ahead of schedule at the halfway stage of construction is a great achievement.”