A construction specialist from Essex law firm Birkett Long LLP has played a key legal role in the creation of a new sculpture in East London, at a key time in the area’s history.

Head of the Commercial Department Peter Allen was instructed by Colchester-based Sorba (UK) Ltd to advise on and negotiate the contractual terms for the building of the Stratford Shoal.  This 250m titanium structure was commissioned as part of a multi million pound project to give Stratford town centre a new identity.

Mr Allen explained: “The sculpture, which is 17m high, has created a new edge along Great Eastern Road at the back of the Stratford Centre.  It’s a series of steel ‘trees’ with 73 leaves which move in the wind to create a dynamic and natural-looking display. Sorba was responsible for the titanium cladding of the leaves which were then sent to be anodised in Japan.

“Birkett Long was responsible for advising on the terms of the contract for Sorba within a fairly tight timeframe.  The project has now been completed and is a very striking addition to the Stratford area. We are extremely pleased to have played a part in its construction.”

Sorba (UK) Ltd General Manager Keith Owens said: “We were very happy with the service provided by Birkett Long. We’ve used Peter for many years and he has always achieved excellent results for us.”