Douglas Maxwell co-authors chapter in new book to mark the 150th Anniversary of the TCC

Hart Publishing has published a new book edited by Sir Peter Coulson and David Sawtell to mark the 150^th anniversary of what is now the Technology and Construction Court.

Henderson Chambers’ Douglas Maxwell was invited to co-write a chapter titled: ‘Fire at the Palace: 150 Years of Fire Safety in Buildings’. The chapter considers the last 150 years of fire safety in buildings and construction product liability through the prism of a single case: the fire at the Alexandra Palace in North London in 1873. The chapter discusses the most significant developments in building safety and construction product liability by reflecting on the regulatory landscape in 1873, 1923, 1973 and 2023.

The History of the Technology and Construction Court on its 150^th Anniversary: Rewriting the Rules draws on different perspectives and approaches to showcase distinctive aspects of the Official Referees and the TCC from its origins in the Judicature Act 1873 through to its modern-day role as an international leader in dispute resolution through litigation, arbitration and adjudication.

The contributors are current and retired senior judges, academics and leading construction and technology lawyers. The book explores the lives and impact of notable Official Referees and TCC judges from the senior judiciary’s perspective, with contributions by Lord Dyson, Sir Rupert Jackson, Dame Finola O’Farrell, Sir Peter Coulson and Her Honour Frances Kirkham.

The book offers a unique insight from the judiciary, practising lawyers and academics into the significance and development of the TCC.

A complete list of contributors and more information about the book can be accessed online.