Suspension of works on Elliot Group schemes

Following discussions with developer Elliot Group, Liverpool-based property firm Vermont has agreed to suspend work on two projects it is currently delivering in the city.

Work remains ongoing at all other live Elliot Group sites.

The decision was taken in the wake of allegations made last month against Elliot Lawless, founder of Elliot Group, along with a senior official at Liverpool City Council, who are both the subject of an investigation by Merseyside Police.

Mr Lawless has strenuously denied the allegations and neither he nor the council official have been charged with any offence.

The decision affects two developments: Aura, a student scheme on the edge of the city’s Knowledge Quarter which was due to complete in September 2020; and phase one of the Infinity scheme on Leeds Street – a 38-storey, residential tower with 416 apartments, scheduled to be handed over in December 2021.

Vermont is in talks with its supply chain to reassure all subcontractors that payment of all works to date will be met.

All of Vermont Group’s other projects are unaffected by this decision and all operations continue as normal.

Elliot Group expects to re-start activity on both Liverpool schemes following the satisfactory conclusion of outstanding legal matters.

A spokesman for Elliot Group said: “We want to resume all works as quickly as possible and to ensure completion of the project for the purchasers and investors.”

Vermont will not make any further statement while the police investigation is in progress.