The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) hosted its 17th Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Workshop on January 22, 2026, at One Great George Street in Westminster, London. This annual event is a cornerstone for professionals in the construction industry, focusing on the complexities of adjudication in the UK and enhancing expertise in dispute resolution.
The 2026 workshop, themed "Fairness, Bias and the Role of the Engineer in Dispute Resolution: Getting Back to Basics," addressed pivotal issues influencing the future of ADR. Topics included unconscious bias, ethical responsibilities, and the evolving role of engineers in ensuring fair and effective dispute resolutions. The program featured expert-led presentations, interactive discussions, and real-world case studies, providing attendees with practical insights into how fairness and bias impact outcomes and the engineer's role in fostering balanced resolutions.
Notable sessions included a judicial perspective on fairness in technical disputes by the Hon. Mrs. Justice O'Farrell DBE, a construction law update by Ms. Claire Packman KC, and workshops on delay analysis, dispute boards, and adjudication practices. The event also offered ample networking opportunities during breaks and lunch, allowing participants to connect with peers and industry leaders.
This workshop was particularly beneficial for construction professionals, legal experts, and engineers involved in dispute resolution. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of current challenges and best practices in ADR, equipping them to handle disputes more effectively in their respective roles.
Categories
Speakers(6)
Claire Packman KC
Barrister at 4 Pump Court
Claire is an experienced commercial barrister with over 25 years of experience practising at 4 Pump Court and became a KC in 2021. She has an exceptional reputation in the fields of construction, engineering, professional negligence, and international arbitration.
Deborah Scott
Adjudicator at MCMS
Debbie Scott has over 35 years’ experience in the construction industry, primarily working as a geotechnical engineer, and more recently acting as an Adjudicator. She is a chartered civil engineer and a Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb).
Donny Mackinnon
Adjudicator/Arbitrator at Mackinnon Consult
Donny is an experienced and multi-disciplined construction professional: a chartered construction manager, a chartered quantity surveyor, a chartered arbitrator (qualified in both domestic and international commercial arbitration), a FIDIC certified adjudicator, dispute board member, and an independent expert.
James Golden
Director & Head of Construction at Horwich Farrelly
James is a chartered civil engineer and Fellow of the ICE. He is a practicing solicitor and head of construction at HF Quigg Golden. He is an adjudicator and mediator, including on the ICE, TeCSA, RICS, and Irish Ministerial Panels.
Richard Bayfield
Director at Bayfield Associates
Richard began his career in construction working as a labourer on local construction sites in London during his school holidays. He subsequently studied civil engineering as a sandwich student at Surrey University and spent 13 years working for Costain on major projects, including the Thames Barrier.
Suryen Nullatamby
Head of Construction and Senior Associate Solicitor at Birkett Long
Suryen Nullatamby is an award-winning lawyer specializing in construction law and dispute resolution. He sits as an adjudicator and arbitrator on various UK panels and represents clients in a range of construction and engineering projects of varying size and complexity.
Event Details
- Date
- January 22, 2026
- Location
- 🇬🇧 London, United Kingdom
- Institution of Civil Engineers, One Great George Street
- Audience
- Construction professionals, legal experts, engineers involved in dispute resolution