This Practice Note considers the status of the programme in a construction contract, what difference it makes if the programme is a contract document and the approach of standard form contracts to the programme.
The programme is an important document in any construction project. It assists the contractor to organise the project and plan the execution of the works. It also helps the employer and contract administrator to monitor progress, measure the contractor’s performance and assess delay.
In general, unless the construction contract states otherwise, the contractor can programme the works and carry them out in such order as it sees fit and the employer has little influence over the sequencing and activities. In GLC v Cleveland Bridge and Engineering (1984) 34 BLR 50 (not available in LexisNexis®) the court stated that the contractor is usually entitled to 'plan and perform the work as he pleases, provided always that he finishes it by the time fixed in the contract'.
Without specific provision in the contract, an employer will have no