** UPDATE: We’ve received this statement from the firm handling publicity for Shard. “There is no delay to the Shard opening. We have always stated that the viewing galleries would open mid February 2013, the Shangri-La hotel formally opening around the same time and the restaurants will open as they are let and fitted out. The inauguration takes place as announced on 5 July.” **

There are conflicting reports today about whether the Shard Tower in London will open on schedule. 

Construction Week is reporting that the official opening of Shard will be delayed by at least two months. The paper is quoting UK construction trade website Building.co.uk, which says that the delay means that the city’s newest landmark will not now be open in time for the Olympics.

However, Arabian Business quotes a spokesperson saying that the building was completed at the end of May, and that the inauguration will go ahead as planned on July the 5th.

The official ceremony will be attended by the Qatari Prime Minister and Prince Andrew, the Duke of York.

The tower, which is 95% funded by Qatar, is the tallest building in Western Europe.

Credit: Photo by EEPaul