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Home , Palace of Westminster, Parliamentary Estate, Portcullis House, Richmond House

Ensuring the Future of the of :

The Essential First Step

A plan for the temporary on ’s Northern Estate

Summary of Proposals, Autumn 2019 2 Contents Forewords

Tom Brake MP Liz Peace CBE House of Commons Commission Chair, Shadow Sponsor Board Restoration and Renewal Programme

Forewords 3 Over a year has passed since both Houses of Parliament took the The is universally recognised as an icon of Consultation on the proposals 4 momentous decision to move out of the Palace of Westminster on democracy and the mother of . It is one of the most The need for the restoration and renewal a temporary basis while essential work to restore and renew the recognisable buildings in the world, arguably our country’s most of the Palace of Westminster 6 building takes place. important listed building, and yet sadly it remains in need of urgent repair. The plan agreed by Parliament 8 After decades of under-investment, the Palace is in very poor condition. The patch and mend approach is failing. Today Restoring and renewing the heritage of the Palace will now be a The Northern Estate site 10 the Palace is deteriorating faster than it can be repaired. substantial undertaking after years of under investment. But it Exploring options for the Northern Estate 12 The longer the essential work is left, the greater the risk of will also give us the opportunity to make huge improvements to catastrophic failure. the disabled access, to the energy efficiency of the building and A summary of the proposals for the Northern Estate 14 to the experience of the one million people who visit Parliament The fire at Notre Dame earlier this year was a stark reminder every year. A new temporary House of Commons Chamber 16 of the importance of protecting our most treasured historic buildings. Before we can get started on the Palace, however, we need to Flexibility of use for a long-term legacy 18 make adequate provision for both Houses during the extensive A new building fit for a 21st century Parliament 20 The proposals described in this brochure to redevelop the decant period. The proposals outlined in these pages pave the Northern Estate and provide a temporary Chamber for MPs in way for us to do just that by providing a temporary home for the Design principles for the new Richmond House 22 Richmond House are the first essential step to secure the future House of Commons. This will ensure the continued functioning of of the Palace for generations to come. Richmond House design changes through consultation 24 British democracy while we get on with the essential restoration and renewal works at the vacated Palace. We have been busy last year and through 2019 preparing Conserving the Northern Estate 26 plans for this temporary accommodation. We have consulted The Northern Estate has its own heritage challenges and is Creating a better connected and accessible space 32 extensively with MPs and Peers, staff, statutory bodies and also in need of substantial restoration, which is why Parliament interested parties including Westminster City Council, the had already decided on an extensive programme of repair and Streetscape and perimeter security 34 Greater Authority, Transport for London, Historic refurbishment. This programme has, however, been enlarged Energy and Environmental sustainability 35 and other heritage bodies. in order to allow for the creation of the temporary House of Commons chamber in a redeveloped Richmond House. Summary of benefits 36 We also ran an extensive public consultation in which a summary of our Northern Estate proposals was viewed over 26,000 times. This, together with the work on the other buildings on the The planning applications 38 We are very grateful for the thoughtful comments and insightful Northern Estate, will not only accommodate vital Parliamentary feedback, which has led to several changes being made to our Indicative development timeline 39 activities during the decant, it will also provide a valuable and proposals. A Statement of Community Involvement is available to much used part of the for the future. view as part of our planning application documents, along with details of the changes we have made. There are many other benefits, too - 1,000 jobs and 150 apprenticeships will be supported during construction and small and medium-sized Our plans deliver on a number of fronts. They provide for a enterprises will be engaged in supply chains across the UK. temporary home for the House of Commons within a single security perimeter, the conservation of several listed heritage Everyone I speak to agrees that work on the Palace needs to start buildings, greatly improved access for people with disabilities, as soon as possible, which is why it is essential that we proceed more sustainable and efficient buildings, significant heritage as rapidly as we can with the refurbishment of the Northern benefits and a legacy for Parliament. Estate, and in particular Richmond House. The programme outlined here will not only provide much-needed investment to I hope you find this updated information helpful in explaining the several of Parliament’s heritage buildings and create valuable essential first step to save the Palace of Westminster, new space, it will also achieve a greater purpose - enabling us to so it can continue to serve as the home of the UK Parliament get on with protecting our most cherished historic listed building in the 21st century and beyond. for generations to come.

The Commission is responsible for the administration The Sponsor Board, established in shadow form in July 2018 and services of the House of Commons, including the but due to become substantive in April 2020, will own the maintenance of the Palace of Westminster and the rest budget and scope of the restoration programme. Accountable of the Parliamentary Estate. directly to Parliament, it will help ensure the Delivery Authority provides what the client has asked for and within the specified budget and timescale. 3 4 Consultation on the proposals

The proposals for Parliament’s These events were attended by the senior A full description of the consultation Northern Estate were launched project team throughout and included a undertaken, feedback received and the in early May 2019 and published series of architectural models and virtual design response is also included in the in a comprehensive Consultation reality headsets to bring the proposals ‘Statement of Community Involvement’ Document, which was also available to life. which is part of the suite of planning documents submitted to Westminster City to download from a dedicated With the plans widely covered in the Council. consultation website national media, over 26,000 people at northernestate.parliament.uk. viewed the proposals for the Northern Now that the applications have been Estate either online or by attending one of registered by the Council, it will be Leading up to and following the public the many meetings or consultation events conducting its own statutory consultation launch, we engaged closely with MPs and in person. before determining the planning Peers, their staff, House staff, statutory application. Further details on how to bodies and interested parties including All comments received were shared with respond to the statutory consultation can Westminster City Council, the Greater the design team and there have been be found at page 38. London Authority, Transport for London, some significant changes incorporated and other heritage bodies. into the final plans which have now been submitted to Westminster City Council as We also consulted with the local a series of seven planning applications. communities around the site. We held several staffed public exhibition events These changes are summarised across so that local residents and members pages 14-15 of this document and then of the public could understand and expanded upon in the sections which comment on the proposals. follow.

Illustrative images of the consultation materials. Photograph of the models shown during the public consultation. 5 6 The need for the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster

The Restoration and Renewal The heating, ventilation, water, Some essential work is already underway Programme has been established drainage and electrical systems are across the estate to the buildings to tackle the essential work required now antiquated with asbestos needing operational. A programme of work to to protect the heritage of the to be removed and improvements to fire conserve the Elizabeth Tower, the Great Palace of Westminster (the Houses safety required. There is extensive decay Clock and the Great (also known as to the stonework, roofs are leaking and ) began in early 2017 and is on of Parliament) and ensure it can gutters and downpipes are corroded. The track for completion in 2021. continue to serve as home to the plumbing regularly fails, causing visible UK Parliament in the 21st century and sometimes irreversible damage to the Since 2009 repair work has been and beyond. Palace’s carved stonework ceilings and underway to the Palace's 170-year-old Pugin-designed historic interiors. Earlier cast iron tiled roofs, which are leaking There has been significant under- this year, the House had to be suspended and causing damage to stonework and investment in the Palace since the 1940s, due to a water leak. historic interiors. when parts of it were renovated following bomb damage during the Second World The building is deteriorating faster than it Works to Westminster , which involved War. Despite being one of the most iconic can be repaired. The longer this essential internal stone cleaning, conservation of buildings in the world, many parts have work is left, the greater the risk that the statues, friezes and carved stonework, never undergone major renovation since building will suffer a sudden catastrophic were completed in 2015. The hall dates its construction in the mid-1800s. failure that makes the building back to 1099 and further conservation and Fire safety systems are antiquated, Some of the essential mechanical and Repairs are needed to preserve uninhabitable and brings a sudden stop fire safety work is now underway. and fire safety officers are required to electrical services such as heating, , currently home to the to the work of Parliament. Because of the patrol the Palace 24-hours-a-day to spot drainage, lighting, water, ventilation . Refurbishment work has also begun at size and layout of the Palace, this will be signs of fire. and communications are now up to 130 1 Derby Gate and new security gates have the biggest and most complex, historic years old. been installed at Commissioner's Yard renovation programme ever undertaken Gate on the Northern Estate. in the UK.

The Palace was built using Asbestos, which was used extensively The vast majority of the Palace’s 4,000 limestone which quickly began to decay during the post-war rebuilding period, bronze windows do not close properly, and very little was done to prevent its is present throughout the building. letting water in and heat out and many of decline during the 19th century. the most historically significant parts of the Palace are at risk.

7 8 The plan agreed by Parliament

The decision-making process Selecting the site 2012 September 2016 for a temporary House Both Houses appoint a study Following its year-long inquiry, the of Commons group to examine the options for Committee concludes that the lowest During the public consultation, we were tackling the work on the Palace. risk, most cost-effective and quickest The report said ‘doing nothing option to undertake the essential asked to provide more detail about the was not an option’. works would be for all Members alternative options that were explored. and staff to move out of the Palace These were all considered during the December 2013 – June 2015 temporarily in one single phase while lengthy down-selection process and A consortium is appointed to produce works take place. It also concludes we have summarised below the an Independent Options Appraisal with that ‘the best decant solution for the reasons for them being discounted. illustrative costs and timescales for a House of Commons appears to be major refurbishment of the Palace of based around Richmond House and • House was discounted Westminster. Published in June 2015, this the Northern Estate.’ The preferred based on a number of security, compares three options – option for the is to technical and engineering challenges. a rolling programme of works whilst be temporarily relocated to the QEII It would still require significant the building remains in use; the Conference Centre, subject to further additional space to be created refurbishment of half the building at a feasibility work. elsewhere on the estate as it would time with each House vacating in turn; fail to meet the space requirements as and the full move out of the Palace of September 2017 well as requiring an additional phase Westminster enabling all works to be The Murphy Perimeter Security Review, Parliament's of decant. delivered together. The report concludes which followed the Westminster Northern Horseguards Portcullis Estate the fully vacated option is the lowest attacks in March 2017, strengthens Parade House • Horseguards Parade was ruled out Temporarily relocating cost, fastest option and ‘provides the the case for MPs’ accommodation to primarily due to its distance from Foreign and House best opportunity to mitigate disruption be located within a continuous single Commonwealth of Commons other buildings on the Parliamentary and nuisance over the long-term.’ secure site. Of all the potential options Office HM Treasury Estate and potential security risks to considered, only the Northern Estate July 2015 Members of both Houses who would provides such space within a secure Palace of Westminster House of A Joint Select Committee, made Lords be moving between sites. perimeter. up of Members of both Houses, is • Westminster Hall was ruled out set up to consider the findings of January – February 2018 QE II Temporarily relocating due to the early 19th century floor the Independent Options Appraisal The Government tables two motions on Centre not being structurally strong enough report and recommendations. At this restoration and renewal of the Palace to support a chamber, and changes time, the Restoration and Renewal of Westminster, with a debate in the in temperature resulting from Programme began assessing a variety House of Commons in late January and associated services would pose a of temporary accommodation sites for in the Lords in early February. Both the Palace of Westminster. Houses back the decision for a full move threat to the medieval roof. as the ‘best and most cost-effective Spring 2016 • HM Treasury was ruled out for way’ of carrying out the works. A review of potential relocation options a number of reasons including is conducted by the Restoration and May 2019 difficulties obtaining the site, Renewal Programme team taking The Draft Parliamentary Buildings structural limitations, access and into account advice from the Joint (Restoration and Renewal) Bill is servicing constraints. Committee and in consultation with introduced to Parliament. This seeks • Foreign and Commonwealth Office the Government Property Unit. Given to establish the statutory bodies, courtyard was primarily ruled out the well-established need to be in comprising the Parliamentary Works for security reasons, as well as proximity to Government departments Sponsor Body and the Delivery constrained access, and impact to in and around Westminster, this Authority, which will be responsible process filters down over 100 sites in for the restoration and renewal works the Grade 1 listed courtyard. List of key House of Commons functions to move from London through a long-listing and within the Parliamentary estate. Additionally, the requirement that short-listing process, assessed against the Palace of Westminster into Parliament’s Northern Estate: Consultation plans are published for all MPs and the chamber be located a range of Critical Success Factors and • Chamber and division lobbies • Press Gallery Parliament’s Northern Estate, with within a single secure site can only be Investment Objectives. a series of public exhibitions and • Continued public access • Catering facilities achieved at the Northern Estate site. consultation meetings held. • Committee Rooms • Welfare (cycle spaces, shower, The Northern Estate site is also October 2019 • Procedural and library services locker and changing spaces) assessed to provide by far the The Parliamentary Buildings • Offices for 200 MPs and their staff • Visitor and Education Centre strongest legacy benefit. (Restoration and Renewal) Bill receives . • Ministerial and Whips’ accommodation

9 10 The Northern Estate site

The work to the Northern Estate is the essential first step that enables the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster. Richmond Norman Norman Shaw North Shaw South House The Northern Estate is a group of 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st Century buildings, Laundry Commissioner’s 1 Canon most of which are listed and of Road Yard Row considerable heritage value, located next door to the Palace of Westminster. They are already in use by MPs, their staff and 49-53 2 & 3 Parliament the staff of the House of Commons. Parliament Street Street These buildings are themselves in need of significant investment and refurbishment Richmond 85 & Red Lion 1 Derby Canon 1 Parliament Street to bring them up to modern environmental Terrace 54 Parliament Street Gate Row standards, enable access for people with disabilities and create much more efficient Bridge Street spaces for modern use.

The Northern Estate site is surrounded by a number of important neighbouring buildings, including New Scotland Whitehall Parliament Street Yard to the east of Richmond House, the Ministry of Defence to the north and other Government departments across Whitehall such as HM Treasury, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Richmond House Laundry Road 49-53 Parliament Street 1 Canon Row Portcullis House Cabinet Office and . To This Grade II* listed building comprises Formerly a service yard behind Norman This Grade II listed building was built in Built in 1906, originally as a police station, Officially opened in 2001, Portcullis the south of the site is the Palace of Richmond Terrace, built originally as Shaw North, this road has been used for 1896 and is used as office space. this Grade II* listed building is being House provides offices for MPs and their Westminster and . Georgian town houses in 1824. This was delivery access and bin storage since refurbished. staff with meeting and catering spaces, subsequently incorporated into a new Richmond House was built. Norman Shaw South supplementing the limited space in the structure by Whitfield Associates in This Grade II* listed building, completed Canon Row Palace of Westminster and surrounding 1984 called Richmond House which also Red Lion pub in 1906, originally provided additional A key street existing since medieval times buildings. includes Grade II listed 85 Whitehall and The Grade II listed Red Lion Pub on the offices for the and is running from Bridge Street to Derby 54 Parliament Street. Richmond House corner of Derby Gate and Parliament now used as offices. Last refurbished in Gate, now within the perimeter of the 1 Parliament Street was occupied by the Department of Health Street was built around 1890 as a the 1990s, essential services now need Parliamentary Estate but which provides This Grade II listed building was built in until they moved out in 2017, with the purpose-built public house. updating. Many areas of the building, a poor pedestrian environment. 1888 as offices for the London and North Parliamentary Estate taking possession of including the main entrance, have no Western Railway Estate Office, the largest the building in early 2018. The building in Norman Shaw North wheelchair access. 2-3 Parliament Street stock listed company in the world at the its current form is not suitable for housing Originally built as the headquarters for These Grade II* listed buildings form part time. It was redeveloped in the 1980s and a Chamber, committee rooms, public the Metropolitan Police in 1890, this Grade 1 Derby Gate of an 18th century development. These is used for offices and catering facilities, access and educational facilities. It also I listed building is used as office space. 1 Derby Gate is a Grade II* listed building buildings need refurbishing and have poor but the building is inefficient and suffers has constrained floor to ceiling heights and The building has not been refurbished for and was originally the Whitehall Club, a accessibility. from poor access to Canon Row and the provides limited access for people with 40 years, its façade and roof are in urgent Victorian Gentlemen’s Club, built in the rest of the Northern Estate. disabilities. need of repair and essential services need manner of a Venetian palace. Renovation replacing. work is currently underway.

11 12 Exploring options for the Northern Estate

Of all the options considered within 1. Spreading the impact across the London, only the Northern Estate can Northern Estate still required the deliver the spatial requirements for partial demolition and redevelopment the House of Commons to operate of Richmond House while also needing within a single, safe and secure site. significant interventions to almost all other buildings within the Northern Fitting a temporary House of Commons Estate in order to accommodate Chamber with its associated facilities the additional spaces required. and workspace for MPs and their staff This approach was unlikely to be into the Northern Estate is a significant supportable given the level of harm challenge, given it is a constrained created to a range of listed buildings and already occupied site, full of listed across the Estate. buildings. Considerable thought has 2. The use of temporary buildings, to gone into balancing critical functional be demolished later, was assessed requirements, heritage and value for but found to be unsuitable, not least money. because the security requirements mean that they would need to be built The original option of locating the to a similar standard as permanent temporary Chamber within the courtyard buildings. The Public Accounts of Richmond House, when properly Committee when reviewing this option tested, was found to create a number of agreed that such an approach should issues. Critically, accommodating both be dismissed as it would represent the Chamber and the adjacent division poor value for money for the taxpayer. (voting) lobbies required the partial demolition of Richmond House. 3. Focussing the intervention on Richmond House, which is the Further masterplan options were approach being proposed, allows therefore developed to consider how the creation of an exceptional and space across the whole Northern Estate flexible new building at Richmond could be maximised to deliver the House to meet the accommodation requirements. requirements of the House of Commons. This includes new From an initial long list, three principal basement levels for site-wide options were developed for consideration infrastructure, including an energy – spreading the impact across the centre to help achieve zero carbon Northern Estate; utilising temporary emissions by 2050, whilst conserving buildings; and focusing the intervention and sensitively enhancing multiple on Richmond House. listed buildings across the Northern Estate. This approach also delivers the strongest legacy benefits.

Illustrative image showing all of the design proposals for the Northern Estate. 13 14 A summary of the proposals for the Northern Estate

The proposals for the Northern A temporary House of Commons A new building within the existing Estate will create a temporary Chamber within a substantially courtyard of the Grade II* Norman House of Commons Chamber and redeveloped Richmond House, Shaw South, that will become associated facilities, together with alongside essential facilities required office space for MPs and staff while workspace for all 650 MPs and their around the Chamber for the continued providing a courtyard space and staff in addition to public access and functioning of Parliament, in addition a link to connect Portcullis House educational provision. to new workspace, an education with the wider Northern Estate, with centre and visitor facilities. The expanded catering facilities to the It is the essential first step to enable proposals retain Richmond Terrace, rear of the building and opening out the restoration and renewal of the the Whitehall façade and 85 Whitehall Commissioner’s Yard onto Canon Row. Palace of Westminster and will deliver and 54 Parliament Street. a transformed Parliamentary Estate for future generations. Modernised servicing and access Laundry Road arrangements across the entire There are seven planning applications Improvements to the Grade I listed Northern Estate, with new and listed building consents which have Norman Shaw North Building, basement levels under Richmond been submitted to Westminster City with a new lightweight glass atrium House linked to the other buildings Council. We set out each of these created over the courtyard, to Richmond Terrace across the estate, providing efficient together with a brief description on utilise this historic space. Along Canon Row arrangements for deliveries, waste page 38. with conservation repairs to this management, recycling, utilities, highly significant building there will common kitchens and other shared be internal improvements to meet facilities including a new Energy modern standards. Centre to transform sustainability and energy efficiency.

Plan view of the Northern Estate proposals. Conservation and internal improvements across the Enhanced security and improvements to the external environment, required to New internal landscaping, to improve accessible circulation across the estate and Parliament Street buildings, ensure the House of Commons can operate in a safe and secure environment while the setting of the listed buildings, re-establishing the historic Canon Row as the including substantial redevelopment works to the Palace of Westminster take place. The proposed arrangements include central spine connecting the buildings together into a ‘campus’ environment along of the rear elevations of the buildings railings and bollards that can be removed during ceremonial occasions. with new trees and planting for environmental benefits. fronting Canon Row to improve internal layouts and accessibility.

Key design changes made during consultation

A large number of design changes have been Amending the roofscape of Changing the design and massing Removing the glazing on the press Reducing the height of the canopy Reducing the additional made since consultation as a direct result of 2 Richmond House to reduce the 3 of the infill building at Norman 4 gallery above the temporary 6 proposed along Canon Row to 8 railings proposed for Victoria our engagement with key stakeholders and massing of the rooftop plant Shaw South from a stepped House of Commons Chamber so reduce the overall impact on Embankment, however we need to the public. The main changes are: enclosure, reduce the height and back form to a more distinct and that reporters and journalists can neighbouring heritage buildings. introduce additional railings and set back and change the materials separate building following design better observe proceedings. More detail can be found gates around the Red Lion Pub and Removing the temporary security used for the rooftop pavilion. This feedback. The internal circulation More detail can be found on p. 16. on pp. 32-33. Derby Gate. More detail can be 1 pavilion from in front of Richmond responds to some comments about and layout of the building has found on p. 34. House and incorporating these Changing the design of greening and spaces the impact of the new building as also changed and now provides a 5 7 functions into the adjacent 85 façade of 1 Parliament Street within the Northern Estate, Further information about how Whitehall/54 Parliament Street. seen from Whitehall. More detail clearer (and weather-protected) as viewed from Canon Row and including new trees, landscaping we have responded to feedback is This responds to comments that the can be found on p. 25. route from Portcullis House to roofscape to better reflect the and incorporating biodiversity to included throughout this document and pavilion was obstructing views of Laundry Road. More detail can be the Whitehall façade of Richmond found on pp. 28-29. scale of the historic street. the terrace of Richmond House. detailed more fully in the Statement of House and concerns that it could More detail can be found on p. 31. More detail can be found on p. 35. Community Involvement which forms have become a permanent building. part of the suite of planning application More detail can be found on p. 24. materials.

15 16 A new temporary House of Commons Chamber

The proposals will deliver a temporary House of Commons “The opportunity should “As a reporter, my Chamber within a substantially redeveloped Richmond House. be taken for the temporary primary concern is the Commons chamber to be a temporary Chamber and The temporary Chamber will replicate radical redesign.” the glass screening. It is the familiar character and layout of the existing House of Commons Chamber but essential that we are able will provide a greater level of accessibility The proposals presented for the to hear all of the Chamber, temporary chamber fulfils the ‘like for MPs and visitors, including wheelchair and not just whoever is on access to the public gallery. for like’ decant brief provided by the Joint Committee and approved by the mic at any one time.” Essential facilities for the functioning House of Commons Commission in of Parliament will be provided around May 2018. It is an important principle The proposals initially included full the Chamber, including division (voting) of Parliament that only MPs and Peers glazing around both the public, peers lobbies, Committee Rooms, catering can initiate a change in the way they and press galleries. While glass in facilities, and offices for the Speaker, operate. The consideration of any front of the public gallery will remain, Clerk of the House, Serjeant at Arms and future changes around how the House design changes will be made so that other core functions. of Commons operates therefore would the glazing is removed in front of the be for MPs to initiate. press gallery to enable journalists A new press gallery and education and and reporters to better participation spaces will be provided, observe proceedings. and new public areas will enhance public access to democracy while the temporary Chamber is in use.

Indicative image of the proposed temporary House of Commons Chamber as viewed from the public gallery. Indicative image of the proposed temporary House of Commons Chamber. 17 18 Flexibility of use for a long-term legacy

While the new building will provide space for the temporary House of Commons Chamber and its supporting functions, it has been carefully designed to be adaptable for a range of legacy uses.

The space occupied by the temporary Chamber could remain in place as a back- up Chamber, for example in the event of an incident or emergency affecting part or all of the Palace of Westminster.

Alternatively, the space could be easily converted for a range of other possible uses, for example as: • A public debating chamber for schools and other audiences.

• Conference facilities, including those for Indicative image of potential legacy use for the international delegations. temporary Chamber as additional workspace. • A venue for debates and interactive/ educational events. • An exhibition space for parliamentary art and archives. • Additional workspace for staff.

“It would be great to have a museum to display political history.”

“There should be facilities for long term use for education and public engagement.”

Indicative image of potential legacy use for the temporary Chamber as a conference centre. Indicative image of potential legacy use for the temporary Chamber as an educational/exhibition space. Indicative image of potential legacy use for the The precise future legacy use will temporary Chamber as an archive/reading room. be determined through the design process for the Palace of Westminster Similarly, the office space for MPs and Restoration and Renewal Programme, their staff has also been designed with which will explore the best permanent flexibility in mind. When used by MPs locations for the full range of the requirement is primarily for private parliamentary and public functions. modular offices. These spaces could be There will be further opportunities quickly converted into a modern open to feedback on the proposals as the plan working environment. plans for the Restoration and Renewal of the Palace of Westminster are developed.

19 20 A new Richmond House building fit for a 21st Century Parliament

The design approach retains the The proposal is to substantially redevelop The Northern Estate Programme three elements of Richmond House the remaining elements of the building to recognises that the new Richmond House 1 2 3 visible from Whitehall: the Georgian house the Chamber, committee rooms, building needs to provide exceptional Richmond Terrace, the Whitehall public access, educational space and architecture and long-lasting public façade designed by Sir William offices for MPs and staff relocated from legacy. the Palace of Westminster. Whitfield in the 1980s and the buildings at 85 Whitehall and 54 Parliament Street.

The Whitehall façade of Richmond A new visitor entrance and facilities, Internally the Whitehall façade opens 6 House is retained and enhanced to form including a visitor café, leading into out on to a triple-height Central Lobby, a key component of the new building. Central Lobby. A new education centre with key views back out to Whitehall and The full three storeys of the façade are will also be provided. . then revealed as the backdrop to the new 4 5 Central Lobby. A new Cathedral Room will be created, larger than in the existing Richmond House, with a terrace providing views over Whitehall and the Cenotaph. 3 2

4 5 6 1

Indicative image showing the full Richmond House building.

The Grade II* listed Richmond Terrace A new full height atrium, continues A new flexible six storey building with and Grade II listed 85 Whitehall and Canon Row into the heart of the building. a rooftop pavilion will provide a long- 54 Parliament Street are both retained Referencing St Stephen’s Hall in the term legacy as additional workspace and will be refurbished externally and Palace of Westminster, this area provides for MPs and House staff and utilise the internally. one of the primary Members’ entrance roof spaces. A three-storey basement routes to the House of Commons Chamber is also being provided to include the from the wider Northern Estate. Energy Centre, logistics route and provide ancillary space for both the new Richmond House and the wider Northern Estate. 21 22 Design principles for the new Richmond House

The proposed design of Richmond House references the defining 1 2 3 character of the unique context of the Northern Estate and is conceived as a contemporary addition that knits together the retained listed buildings with new elements.

1. A stone plinth references the surrounding context of Whitehall and ties the new elements to the existing Richmond Terrace. 2. The proposed building façade references the architecture of the adjacent Norman Shaw North and is designed to create contextual streetscape between the buildings. This includes the use of London stock brick which is common across the capital and used on other façades on Whitehall. 3. A façade detail of masonry and stone banding echoes the elevations of Indicative image of Richmond House, shown next to existing Norman Shaw Indicative image of the proposed Richmond House building as viewed from North building. Commissioner's Yard. Norman Shaw North, Norman Shaw South and the existing Richmond House. 4. Three-sided bays reflect the 4 5 arrangement of offices within and draw inspiration from the Palace of Westminster. 5. New stair towers reference Sir William Whitfield's approach to the existing Richmond House.

Indicative image of the proposed entrance as viewed from Canon Row.

Indicative image of the proposed Richmond House building as viewed from Indicative image of the proposed entrance as viewed from Curtis Green. Laundry Road.

23 24

Richmond House design changes During consultation concerns were raised about through consultation the level of intervention to the Grade II* listed Richmond House building.

Three major changes have been made to the designs for Richmond House as a result of the consultation – The approach of focusing the scale of the removal of the security pavilion, lowering the height of the roofscape and more greening of the roof spaces. intervention on Richmond House has been thoroughly tested, recognising 1. Security and the removal of the temporary pavilion that this causes substantial harm to a listed building. We have not embarked on this lightly.

Accommodating a temporary House of Commons Chamber, its associated facilities and offices for all 650 MPs and their staff within the Northern Estate, is a considerable challenge. Every option considered required significant demolition to parts of Richmond House.

The proposed designs retain all the frontages of the building visible to the public, including the Georgian Richmond Terrace and the significant 1980s frontage to Whitehall. Behind these spaces it has to be recognised that the current Richmond House is unsuitable for public access and the demand being placed upon it. The decision to list the building says “the office floors are not of special architectural or historic interest and are excluded from the listing.” Indicative image showing the proposals as viewed from Parliament Street, with the security pavilion now removed from the plans to show the Whitehall façade. Indicative image of the proposals for Richmond House as viewed from Laundry Road, showing reduced massing on the roof. By creating a confident, contemporary building in this location which delivers Under the original design, it was Security screening will be delivered in the 2. Height and roofscape 3. Greening of the roof spaces the vast majority of the new spaces proposed that entrance screening would least intrusive way possible, although the In consultation some concerns were The roof design has been evolved to required, we are able to protect the take place within a temporary security central lift and stair core to 54 Parliament expressed that the plans at roof level and include extensive planting to provide existing outward face of the estate. pavilion in front of the Richmond House Street will need to be removed in order height of the new elements would impact a range of habitats. This also conserves and enhances the façade to manage the flow of visitors to accommodate all the necessary views from Whitehall. other historic buildings across the entering the building. This would have screening equipment. At 85 Whitehall, This soft and visible landscape is wider Northern Estate, including the obstructed views of the façade and has the structural works required will include Design changes have been made to supplemented by bird and bat boxes Grade 1 listed Norman Shaw North. now been entirely removed. a new opening to the façade to create a reduce the massing of the rooftop in response to ecological surveys to We believe it represents the best suitable entrance to Richmond House and plant enclosure. The rooftop pavilion enhance local habitat provision. overall heritage solution for the site In place of the temporary pavilion, the fire escape for 54 Parliament Street will also be reduced in height. The fifth and the only viable solution for the security screening will now be located will be achieved via a new bridge link into floor elements have been set back from House of Commons. inside the building. This will be linked to 53 Parliament Street. Whitehall and Richmond Terrace, and to a a new shop on the ground floor of lesser degree Derby Gate. This entire project is aimed at 53 Parliament Street, with a café inside An additional railing will be introduced in securing a great prize – the timely The previous proposals showing a temporary Richmond House. front of the Whitehall façade to provide With the new roofscape of Richmond new visitor pavilion, which is not part of the final restoration and renewal of arguably submitted planning application. further security for the building. House set back from the façade frontage, the single most important listed views and sightlines from along Whitehall building in the country, the Palace of should remain unimpeded. Westminster.

25 26 Conserving the Northern Estate

The Northern Estate Programme Norman Shaw North will deliver the sensitive repair The courtyard in Norman Shaw North will completely change function, from a delivery and restoration of Norman Shaw and service yard to a catering and informal meeting space covered with a glass roof. North, 1-3 Parliament Street, 2-4 Together with the reinstatement of the oculus and stone floor finish within its courtyard Canon Row, Norman Shaw South and space, this will greatly improve the experience for people in this Grade I listed building. Richmond Terrace, 85 Whitehall and The exterior of the building will also be restored and the internal spaces modernised. 54 Parliament Street. During the consultation the key design concept, the glazed atrium was well received The buildings were originally designed and supported by the public and key stakeholders. individually and to face outwards and so the internal spaces do not function as a cohesive campus.

Restoring these buildings – some of which have not been refurbished for more than 30 years – secures their long-term use.

1 Derby Gate will not be part of planning applications for the Northern Estate Programme as it is already currently being refurbished.

The external setting of all the buildings within the estate will be greatly improved. This will be achieved by removing service vehicle movements from the internal spaces, removing portacabins and bins, and covering most cycle storage.

New surfacing, lighting and de-cluttering of the area will help to create a new Parliamentary campus.

Within the buildings, original features such as fireplaces, doors, joinery and staircases will be restored, together with the rationalisation of mechanical, electrical and plumbing services. Accessibility will also be greatly improved and essential fire safety measures introduced.

With the temporary House of Commons occupying the site for several years, its rich heritage will be visible to visitors for the first time, including constituents and schoolchildren.

Photo of the existing Norman Shaw North courtyard. Indicative image of the proposed Norman Shaw North atrium and a new glazed courtyard roof. 27 28 Conserving the Northern Estate

Norman Shaw South Grade II listed Norman Shaw South will also see improvements and repair to all elevations and the roof. A new building with a green roof will be created in the courtyard, providing valuable additional office and meeting space.

The internal spaces will be refurbished with new services and a new raised courtyard area as well as a new entrance to Commissioner’s Yard providing a better route to Richmond House.

Since the consultation, the Norman Shaw South infill building has changed from a stepped back form to a more distinct and separate building following feedback. The internal circulation and layout of the building has also changed and now provides a clearer and weather-protected route from Portcullis House to Laundry Road.

Plan view of the proposed Norman Shaw South courtyard. Indicative image of the proposed courtyard within Norman Shaw South. 29 30 Conserving the Northern Estate

A link between Portcullis House Parliament Street buildings and Norman Shaw South Numbers 2 and 3 Parliament Street will Following comments during the A covered link will be created between This will open out onto Canon Row with Taking into account feedback received be retained and refurbished to bring them consultation, the design of the façade Portcullis House and Norman Shaw South lift and stair access to improve the during the consultation, we will be refining up to modern standards. The 1980s rear of facing Canon Row and roof of the 1 with expanded catering facilities to cope connections and accessibility between the detailed design for how the link building 1 Parliament Street will be remodelled to Parliament Street building have been with the increased number of people who Portcullis House and the other buildings. connects into Portcullis House during the provide more accessible space for a range refined to better reflect the historic form will be working within the Northern Estate. next stage of design development. of Parliamentary uses, while the current of the street. Parliament Street elevation will be retained.

Indicative image of the proposed link between Portcullis House and Norman Shaw South, looking towards . Indicative image showing the remodelled 1 Parliament Street building as viewed from Canon Row. 31 32 Creating a better connected and accessible space

The proposals will transform access for all people working in or visiting the Northern Estate, with all buildings and open spaces accessible to wheelchair users.

This will be achieved through creating new entrances to the 1980s buildings along Canon Row and reinstating step- free courtyard access into Norman Shaw

North and South to provide accessible StreetBridge connections between the buildings. Photo of existing Commissioner’s Yard.

The creation of a pedestrian-friendly

external environment including new areas Richmond Terrace of communal space will enable more people to appreciate the historic buildings. Parliament Street

Area plan showing key routes within the Northern Estate.

“Good to see modern Indicative image showing the proposed improvements to Commissioner’s Yard. disability access included in everything, plus other uses for the space when they return to the existing site.”

“Access for the disabled and infirm is essential.”

“The site appears to be in dire need of improved access, connectivity and maintenance of old buildings.”

We also received feedback on the Photo of the existing Laundry Road. height of the canopy proposed along Canon Row. In light of these comments the height has been lowered to reduce the overall impact on the surrounding listed buildings, such as 1 Canon Row, and to be more consistent with the surrounding architecture.

Indicative image showing the proposed improvements to Canon Row. Indicative image showing the proposed improvements to Laundry Road. 33 34 Streetscape and Energy and Environmental perimeter security sustainability

Special arrangements for security These proposals will vastly improve need to be in place during the period the environmental performance the temporary House of Commons of the Northern Estate buildings Chamber is in operation. These to mitigate the effects of climate have been designed to be removed change and will help result in carbon once the Restoration and Renewal emission reductions. Programme is complete. The masterplan will deliver 60% We have already set out elsewhere in this reduction in CO2 emissions from the document the removal of the previously historic buildings on the Northern proposed security pavilion in front of Estate, with the new buildings, including Richmond House. Richmond House, producing 35% less CO2 emissions than Building Regulations Here we explain the changes made to require. the railings proposals and the widening of the pavement along Whitehall and 1. A new Energy Centre will provide a low Parliament Street. carbon heating and cooling network through the use of modern heat- exchange technology. This will draw water through boreholes underneath Richmond House and Portcullis House to service all of the buildings within the Northern Estate site. 2. Heat emissions will be reduced through the installation (or in some cases refurbishment) of secondary glazing throughout the Northern Estate. 3. Upgraded boilers in Portcullis House will reduce gas consumption and Indicative image showing the new public entrance to the House of Commons, as viewed from Parliament Street. Indicative image of green planting on the fifth floor terrace of Richmond House. improve air quality. There will also Railings design Red Lion pub Widening the pavement on be ‘greening’ on the roof of Richmond Along parts of Whitehall and Parliament After careful consideration of security, Whitehall and Parliament Street House and new planting within the Estate. Street, railings will be introduced, it will be necessary to bring the Red Lion The pavement in this section of the street sections of which are being designed to public house within the parliamentary is being widened to allow more space 4. Water usage will be reduced by using be removable for ceremonial occasions, perimeter when the House of Commons for pedestrians and visitors. To enable ‘low flow’ taps and the reuse of water for example on Remembrance Day. chamber moves temporarily to Richmond this, the proposals will remove one in toilets. There is also a reduced House. This is regrettable and will not southbound lane of Parliament Street on a demand on the local drainage Following consultation, we are changing happen for several years, but it would be short section of the road to accommodate infrastructure by reinjecting cooling the design of these to a bronze colour, impossible for the Red Lion to serve the a wider pavement at the proposed visitor water back into the water table via rather than black as previously proposed, public as it does now, given its proximity entrance to Richmond House. the boreholes. and have slotted them behind the existing to the temporary House of Commons and 5. The collection of rainwater in railings to minimise the impact on heritage the practical limitations of implementing We will need to close one bus stop in attenuation tanks will help mitigate buildings. enhanced security measures such as front of Richmond House. We are working flood risk and reduce impact on local airport-style screening for its customers. We will also be scaling back the height with Transport for London to relocate drainage infrastructure. New down The building would be managed of the railings on Victoria Embankment, bus services to other stops nearby on pipes and guttering will also improve temporarily by Parliamentary Estates which we had previously proposed to Parliament Street. drainage and protect historic building under a lease arrangement with the raise to three metres high but which will fabric. owner. The Red Lion would be returned now be retained at the current height. and able to resume its public use as soon 6. Installation of solar panels on the as possible once the House of Commons roof of Richmond House, 1 Parliament chamber moves back to the Palace of Street and the internal courtyard roof Westminster. of Norman Shaw South. 35 36 Summary of benefits

The Northern Estate Programme will The plans have been designed from Once the restoration and renewal of the Palace create a long-term legacy across the the outset to deliver the maximum of Westminster is complete, the new facilities entire site. possible public benefit, not just while the provided within the Northern Estate will also temporary House of Commons Chamber is enable Parliament to consolidate its use of in operation but long into the future. existing buildings and reduce running costs.

Enabling the restoration Ensuring the continued Significant heritage benefits The fastest route to delivery and A safe and secure environment Improving public access and renewal of the Palace functioning of British democracy With major investment and sensitive the best value for money for the for MPs, staff and visitors within to the House of Commons of Westminster Throughout the period that it is in use, improvements to listed buildings across the taxpayer a single site Approximately one million people pass The proposals for the Northern Estate the temporary House of Commons Northern Estate – including Norman Shaw It is widely accepted that the works to Recent incidents have highlighted through Parliament’s doors every year, are the essential first step to secure Chamber, together with its associated North and South – their condition is greatly the Palace of Westminster need to take security risks so the plans have been including schoolchildren, constituents, the continued long-term future of the facilities, will allow Parliament to enhanced. Many of these buildings have not place urgently given the current state of developed to enable all MPs and their businesses, charities and tourists. Palace of Westminster, arguably the most continue to function effectively alongside been comprehensively refurbished for more the building. Consequently, both Houses staff to work within a safe and secure Public engagement is a vital element important listed building in the country. the ministerial and governmental offices than 30 years, and these proposals will of Parliament have endorsed the plan to site. It is also essential to remain in close of our Parliamentary democracy The proposals will enable the House of of Whitehall, 10 and 11 Downing Street, ensure their long-term conservation and fully vacate the Palace. These proposals proximity to the House of Lords and other and the new spaces provided within Commons to continue to function while the Supreme Court, other institutions continued use, whilst minimising changes represent the fastest, best value option to Parliamentary and government buildings Richmond House will maintain public the Palace of Westminster is restored. and government departments. to the historic character of Whitehall and deliver the required spaces and create a around Whitehall to allow the formal access to the Chamber and Committee Parliament Street. lasting legacy for Parliament. and informal interactions that take place Rooms, alongside new education and between the two Houses and government participation spaces. departments to continue.

Transforming access for people Modern facilities for Parliament A wider legacy for Parliament Sustainable and efficient A major economic boost Supporting thousands of with disabilities The proposals will create a fit-for-purpose The flexibility for future use built into the buildings The works to the Northern Estate and the jobs with skills and training A priority of the Restoration and Renewal modern estate for generations to come. new Richmond House brings with it the These proposals will vastly improve the Restoration and Renewal Programme opportunities Programme will be to bring the Palace The new Richmond House delivers potential to free up spaces within the environmental performance of the Northern represent one of the UK’s most important Around 1,000 jobs will be sustained up to the modern accessibility standards much-needed new flexible workspace Palace of Westminster itself. For example, Estate buildings to mitigate the effects of construction projects. Suppliers, including during the construction period, in that are expected of a public building whilst major investment to upgrade the some facilities could remain permanently climate change and would result in carbon small and medium sized enterprises across addition to around 150 apprenticeships and this is an essential component of existing Northern Estate buildings has based within the Northern Estate, allowing emission reductions. The masterplan the country, will be engaged in supply and jobs in the wider supply chain. The the works to the Northern Estate as well. been a fundamental requirement of the space within the Palace to be prioritised will deliver 60% less CO2 emissions for chains and will benefit significantly from building contractors have committed to Accessibility across the whole Northern Parliamentary Estate for many years. for improved public access and an buildings on the Northern Estate, and the main contractor spend across the life supporting under-represented groups Estate site, including to the temporary expanded education programme. 35% less CO2 emissions for Richmond of the project. There is also a commitment and disadvantaged communities into the House of Commons Chamber, will be vastly House, compared to the baseline Building to use social enterprises. construction industry through leading improved through the provision of new Regulations requirements. The proposals programmes such as ‘Beonsite’ and lifts and accessible facilities, reducing the will help to ensure that the Parliamentary ‘Building Futures’. changes in floor levels and providing step- Estate achieves its target of becoming zero free entrances. carbon by 2050. 37 38 The planning applications Indicative development timeline

Following extensive consultation and The seven planning applications each have a reference number and 2019 engagement with key stakeholders over are supported by a suite of Masterplan documents. • Legislation to formally establish a several years, and a widely publicised Delivery Authority and Sponsor Board, public consultation earlier in 2019, we NEP0: NEP1: similar to those used for the London have now submitted a suite of seven Olympics, receives Royal Assent. planning applications and listed Masterplan documents Richmond House full building consents (LBC) to Westminster • The Northern Estate Programme submits Explaining the development of the planning application City Council. a suite of seven planning applications scheme and masterplan context and LBC to Westminster City Council, who will in addition to the environmental As the Local Planning Authority, Setting out the proposals for undertake a statutory consultation statement. Westminster City Council will now be Richmond House and the associated before determining the planning conducting its own statutory consultation These documents are all included listed building consent. application in early 2020. before determining the planning within each of the seven planning 19/08220/FULL applications in early 2020. applications. 2020 19/08221/LBC • Subject to planning approvals, Due to the size and complexity of construction work begins on the the proposals, the seven planning Northern Estate. applications are also supported by a NEP2: NEP3: series of overarching documents such Norman Shaw North full Norman Shaw South full • Public consultation for works to the as Masterplan drawings and impact QEII Conference Centre, to provide assessments. All the applications have planning application planning application temporary accommodation for the been submitted at the same time so that and LBC and LBC House of Lords, followed by the they can be considered and assessed submission of planning applications Setting out the proposals for Norman Setting out the proposals for Norman together. to Westminster City Council. Shaw North and the associated listed Shaw South and the associated listed You can view the planning application building consent. building consent. 2021 documents and leave any comments 19/08243/FULL 19/08267/FULL • Refurbishment works on the Elizabeth by visiting Westminster City Council’s 19/08251/LBC 19/08271/LBC Tower (Big Ben) are complete. planning portal at www.westminster. gov.uk/planning and entering the Early 2020s relevant reference number. NEP4: NEP5: • Planning applications are submitted for restoration and renewal of the Palace of While we have endeavoured to make all Parliament Street Estate Landscape full Westminster. the planning documents accessible to buildings full planning planning application the public, clearly some of the design application and LBC and LBC Mid 2020s details are of the highest security and • Work is expected to be completed certain documents will be restricted to Setting out the proposals for the Setting out the proposals for across both the Northern Estate site and security-cleared individuals. Parliament Street buildings and the the internal landscaping within at the QEII Conference Centre to enable associated listed building consent. Parliament's Northern Estate. Restricted access versions of the planning the temporary relocation of Parliament. 19/08287/FULL 19/08256/FULL documents will be available to view at 19/08290/LBC 19/08259/LBC • Work begins on the restoration and Westminster City Hall under agreed renewal of the Palace of Westminster. security protocols. Early 2030s NEP6: NEP7: • Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Public Urban Realm full Site Infrastructure full Westminster is complete, enabling the planning application planning application functions of the House of Commons and and LBC and LBC House of Lords to move back. Setting out the proposals for the Setting out the proposals for the • Consolidation of buildings within the paving, railings and landscaping on site wide infrastructure within Parliamentary Estate to reduce running Whitehall and Parliament Street. Parliament's Northern Estate. costs. 19/08254/FULL 19/08278/FULL 19/08255/LBC 19/08279/LBC

39 Contact us

You can view these plans at: northernestate.parliament.uk

To find out more about the governance arrangements visit: www.restorationandrenewal.parliament.uk

If you have any questions, please contact us: Email us: [email protected]

Freepost: Northern Estate Programme, 7 , Westminster, SW1P 3JA

If you would like additional copies, require publications translated or provided in an alternative format, please contact the Northern Estate Programme team.