Big Ben set free from four years of scaffolding

The Elizabeth Tower is set to be entirely free of scaffolding by May and the bells are expected to start ringing out permanently once again in the coming months, as the conservation project stays on schedule. Special cranes are being used to remove the gantry, which has supported the complex scaffolding structure and protected the Palace of Westminster since the 96-metretall tower was first fully enclosed almost four years ago.

Bridge Street is closed to all traffic from 7 to 24 April – though pedestrian access will be maintained – due to a large crane lift, and warnings of disruption to routes into and around the Palace are in place during this time.

The restoration is on track to be completed by the summer, when the site will be cleared and Parliament will take up ownership of the building again. Preparations for the use of internal spaces – such as exhibitions and tour routes – are to be finished in the winter.

Inside the building, important components of the Great Clock’s original Victorian mechanism are being fitted over the coming weeks, while dusty works are ongoing in the ventilation shaft.

Fire safety systems are being installed to ensure that the historic Elizabeth Tower complies with the latest building regulations and can be deemed fit for 21st century use.

The Ayrton Light, which shines whenever the House of Commons or Lords is sitting, was structurally repaired last year and has now received a new energy-efficient light fitting to make it greener.

The final months of the restoration are considered crucial as delicate works must be delivered at a great height, in limited confines, and within a bustling, working Parliament.

When the Elizabeth Tower conservation project is finalised, Parliament intends to mark the occasion with updated educational resources, new retail offerings, talks and engagement activities. The ‘People Behind Big Ben’ series that has run since spring 2021 will continue.