Sorry but this just does not wash. Complicated schemes like this would have a ITP. an inspection test plan where each part of the system would subject a percentage check and test by both parties. I very much doubt that the system was turned on and found to have a fault. If it was failing they would know about it.For what it's worth I've just heard a bit more about what happened with the delay ...
The fire detection and suppression systems had failed testing (possibly at the test event) MACE were looking at a fix ... this was known by all but not the serious nature of the issue(s) ...
It wasn't until Monday at 2:00 pm that MACE met with the DL and his team where they informed Spurs that the problem was more serious than first thought and could not be fixed in time for the planned test events ...
This news was leaked to the press that same afternoon ...
Make of that what you will ...
EDIT - bit more info, the fire detection and suppression systems issues were first identified by MACE back in January, they believed they had a fix, clearly not .... that's now a HUGE concern by all at the club ....
This sounds like a HS wash. You can not compromise on Health and safety and that's why it's often used to cloak difficult decisions.
I suspect it wasn't ready because the timescales were too tight and project hand over date just ran out of road.
jimmyriggle explanation sounds more plausible.