A holdout delays US developer's high-rise dream

New York

FIRST came the scaffolding, another lattice-like structure blocking a sidewalk in front of a Manhattan building. And just in case the tenants in five buildings near 57th Street and Fifth Avenue did not get the message, demolition work started on a sixth, adjoining building.

After decades spent buying one small parcel after another across from his masterwork, the swooping office tower at 9 W 57th St, developer Sheldon Solow is finally ready to build.

Mr Solow, a billionaire who turns 89 this month and is now in a hurry, hired Skidmore Owings & Merrill to design a sleek 54-storey hotel and condominium tower to take its place on what has become known as Billionaires' Row.

There is a problem, however. The owners of Metropolitan Fine Arts and Antiques, and the largest remaining tenant at 10 W 57th St, do not want to go. They contend that they have a valid lease and do not want to leave what they believe is a fabulous location, near the plush Bulgari store and opposite …