New approach for restoration and renewal of Parliament

Anew approach to how the programme of restoring and renewing the Palace of Westminster should be governed and delivered has been approved by the members of the Commons and Lords Commissions. The plan promises to prioritise the start of safety-critical works as soon as possible, ensure maximum value for money and establish a governance structure that is “receptive to Parliament’s requirements as a working legislature”.

It has been agreed that the programme of works should initially focus on fire safety and protection, replacement of mechanical, electrical, drainage, plumbing, data and communications systems, asbestos management and conservation of the building fabric.

Minimising the time and extent to which parliamentarians and staff will be asked to move out of the Palace will be given particular attention, with various options being guided by the R&R Delivery Authority and subject to agreement from the two commissions.

MPs and peers will also be asked to consider the recommendation that the R&R Sponsor Body should be replaced by an R&R Programme Board combining parliamentary representation with independent expertise.

The necessary legislative changes, which must be approved by both the House of Commons and the

Lords, are expected to be initiated in the autumn.