(Photo courtesy of Multiplex)

Over 3,000 workers were evacuated from London’s troubled $1-billion Wembley Stadium project March 20 after a 30-meter-long roof girder beam explosively broke away from a support. While investigations into the cause continued, main contractor Multiplex Constructions U.K. Ltd declared the rest of the roof to be sound. Located over the northwest corner of the 90,000-seat stadium, the 50-tonne roof girder was being temporarily supported while welders prepared to make the final connections, says Multiplex Managing Director Martin Tidd. The girder incident adds to a litany of troubles for Multiplex since the stadium’s signature arch was rotated into place in 2004. Multiplex has battled with subcontractors and workers, and lost nearly $200 million on its design-build contract at its last count. Months behind schedule, Multiplex has yet to assess the latest incidents impact, says Tidd. No injuries were reported from the accident.