Ainscough sues Keltbray for £1.3m over crane damage
Summary
Ainscough Crane Hire is pursuing a £1.3m claim against Keltbray Plant over alleged damage to a 750-tonne mobile crane during lifting work on a wind turbine in Hull. The dispute centres on responsibility for rigging, supervision and planning under the CPA Crane Hire Agreement, after the crane’s hoist rope allegedly failed and the machine was out of service for 147 days.
Why it matters
The case highlights how contractual allocation of lifting responsibilities can drive liability where crane damage occurs on site. For surveyors involved in construction, defects, or dispute work, it is a reminder to understand plant-hire terms, site supervision duties and the evidential importance of pre-use checks and rigging records.
Key points
- Ainscough alleges Keltbray was responsible for the lifting operation under CPA crane hire terms.
- The claim concerns alleged incorrect reeving of the crane’s hoist rope during rigging.
- Ainscough says the crane was damaged, then out of use for 147 days for repairs.
- Damages sought include repair costs, idle-time charges and interest under late payment legislation.
- The dispute turns on negligence, misuse and responsibility for planning and supervision.
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