Top designer quick to dismiss rumours of split with architects

SCOTTISH architects RMJM have dismissed rumours that high-profile designer Will Alsop is set to depart from the firm just two years after joining.

The denial followed a report in the trade publication the Architects' Journal that Mr Alsop was poised to join a new partnership with fellow RMJM principal Scott Lawrie, and had called a "crunch meeting" with RMJM heads Peter and Fraser Morrison.

Mr Alsop is best-known for his Stirling Prize-winning design for Peckham library in south London, and for masterplans in northern towns such as Barnsley and Bradford.

His arrival from his previous firm Archial in 2009 had been much-heralded by RMJM, and he had set up the Will Alsop at RMJM studio in London.

Last night, both Mr Alsop and RMJM categorically denied that he was leaving the firm.

"I don't have any plans to leave at all," he said. "I am aware of these rumours - it is like rumours on rumours.

"Archial I couldn't stand. RMJM is much better - I can do architecture here and am extremely busy."

He said that he was busy with a number projects, including a scheme for subway stations in Toronto.

A spokesman for RMJM said: "The rumours are unfounded." Will's position remains completely unchanged."