Developer under SFO investigation

The SFO said it is investigating property development company, Emily Projects Ltd, which no longer exists.

Emily Projects Ltd was the entity used to develop the Celestion Apartments on Auckland’s Anzac Ave.

This development was one of the unfinished projects planned by the failed Blue Chip group of companies.

Property developer Leonard Ross was the director of Emily Projects Ltd.

The SFO said it is also conducting an investigation into Ross.

The investigation was prompted by creditors’ allegations about Ross.

Creditors concerns also led a judge to grant a stay on Emily Projects' removal from the Register of Companies after liquidator Grant Thornton said it didn’t want to delay winding up the company.

Ross was also responsible for the development of New Lynn's Merchant Quarter apartment tower and the former Blue Chip project Icon Central at St Martin's Lane.

He told media that he denied all the allegations against him.