Commons Speaker calls parliament restoration delays frustrating as project faces £40bn cost
Speaker calls for action
Sir Lindsay said his greatest frustration was the lack of progress on the Victorian building’s restoration. He argued that repairs to problem areas should move forward. He also challenged the law requiring Parliament to agree the project’s complete scope and funding before the main renovation work can start. Sir Lindsay questioned why a fire-suppressing mist system had not been installed throughout the building, despite his calls over several years.
A building under strain
The Commons public accounts committee warned this week that the restoration had reached “crunch time”. It said the work could cost up to £40bn and last 61 years.
A report warned of an “impending crisis” a decade ago. Much of the building’s wiring and pipework dates from the 1940s, while some infrastructure is Victorian; fire risks and substantial asbestos have also been identified.
Decisions still to come
A vote could determine whether to proceed with up to £3bn in initial works and reduce four options to a narrower set, with a final decision due by 2030. One proposal would move only the House of Lords, at an estimated cost of £39bn and a duration of 61 years.
Key points
- Sir Lindsay says the restoration is not progressing quickly enough.
- The project could cost up to £40bn and take 61 years.
- Major renovations require approval of the full project scope and funding.
- A possible vote could address up to £3bn of initial work.