London borough sues architects over condition of library built in 2011

A council spokesperson said it would make no further comment in view of legal proceedings.

The library opened in 2011 and the council has complained of water ingress from multiple defects to the roof and walls, which it blamed on failures by CZWG.

An October 2024 cabinet report on a £1.7m roof replacement project saw Southwark say the roof defects were discovered as part of repairs to the timber wall cladding system caused by the failure of the roof to keep water out.

Two external metal cladding panels had become detached from the walling due to the timber construction rotting because of leaks from the parapets on the roof.

A new design was developed to replace the mineral felt roof with a metal substitute.

When the library opened in 2011 then council leader Peter John said: “Southwark’s brief was to design a free-standing iconic civic building which exemplifies the importance of library, education and community facilities to the people of the borough.” The structure won numerous design awards.

CZWG has been contacted for comment.

Mark Smulian