The Evening Express has reported that Leeds-based Cover Structure was placed into administration towards the end of last week.

Now Robertson, the main contractor on the AECC construction project, has pledged to take over the sub-contract directly and employ the former Cover Structure workers for the remainder of the project.

It is understood the firm employs up to 100 staff in Aberdeen.

Robertson chief executive officer, Derek Shewan, said the move will ensure the Bucksburn project will be completed in summer 2019 as scheduled.

He told the Evening Express: “Robertson was made aware on Friday that Cover Structure, the subcontractor handling much of the cladding work on the AECC, was unfortunately about to go into administration.

“We worked proactively over the weekend to find a solution that would ensure the continuation of the project, while securing the jobs of the contractors employed by Cover Structure.

“It is envisaged that Robertson will take over the remainder of the sub-contract directly, including securing equipment and materials, while maintaining the existing operatives in their roles.

“We do not anticipate any delay to the completion of the AECC project.”

Aberdeen City Council co-leader, Councillor Douglas Lumsden, said: “It is disappointing to hear that the main cladding contractor has gone into administration with the impact this will have on those employed.

“It is pleasing to hear, however, that the main contractor Robertson has stepped in so quickly to find a solution to secure the jobs of those involved and also pleasing to hear that they do not anticipate any delay on the completion of the project.”