Ivy's Builder Sues Hemmes Family for $4 Million

By Ian Neubauer

The Supreme Court of NSW ruled this morning (May 15) on a $4 million legal dispute between Hemmes Hermitage – the family company behind Sydney’s Merivale Group – and the builder of its flagship venue ivy.

The ruling by Justice McDougall was made off-the-cuff, or verbally, and will not be made available for perusal in written form until next week.

The action relates to a 2008 claim by builder Lucas Stuart Ltd over payment for work rendered on accommodation rooms and office space on ivy’s fourth floor, The Sydney Morning Herald reported.

Hemmes appeared in court yesterday (May 14) with his father John but did not comment on the proceedings, saying he has “always taken a personal interest” in his affairs.

Lucas Stewart Ltd could not be contacted for comment.