The Essential First Step a Plan for Parliament’S Northern Estate

Home , Parliamentary Estate, Portcullis House, Richmond House, Scotland Yard

Enabling the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster:

The Essential First Step A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate

Consultation Document, May 2019 Contents Foreword

Foreword 1 In 2018, both Houses of Parliament These buildings are themselves in took the momentous decision to need of significant investment and The need for the restoration and temporarily move out of the Palace refurbishment to bring them up to renewal of the Palace of Westminster 2 of Westminster while essential today’s environmental standards, work to restore and renew the vastly improve access for people with The plan agreed by Parliament 4 building takes place. disabilities and create much more efficient spaces for modern office use. The Northern Estate site 6 This approach is the quickest and most cost-effective way of tackling the The Northern Estate Programme must A summary of the proposals for the Northern Estate 8 significant work that needs to be done also create significant additional space to protect the heritage of the Palace of within the site, to cater for all 650 MPs A new temporary House of Commons Chamber 10 Westminster, part of a UNESCO World and their staff, many of whom are Tom Brake MP Heritage Site, and ensure it can continue currently located within the Palace of to serve as home to the UK Parliament in Westminster, as well as the essential Flexibility of use for a long-term legacy 12 House of Commons Commission the 21st century and beyond. functions associated with the temporary May 2019 A new purpose built building at Richmond House House of Commons Chamber. A series of studies were undertaken and st fit for a 21 century Parliament 14 The Commission is responsible for the scrutinised by Parliament to ascertain A thorough design approach has been administration and services of the House the optimal approach to deliver the developed which will enhance public Design principles for the new Richmond House 16 of Commons, including the maintenance Restoration and Renewal Programme. access to democracy and enable the of the Palace of Westminster and the continued functioning of Parliament Conserving the Northern Estate 20 rest of the Parliamentary Estate. It was agreed that during the works during the refurbishment of the Palace the House of Commons, including the of Westminster. The plans will create a Creating a better connected and accessible space 26 Chamber, should be relocated to the lasting future legacy to support the work Northern Estate – the Parliamentary of Parliament and engage people with it. Streetscape and perimeter security 28 buildings including and north of Portcullis House. The Queen Elizabeth The intention is to submit a series of Exploring options for the Northern Estate 30 II Conference Centre (QEII) is currently planning applications to Westminster City the preferred relocation option for the Council later this year so that work on The design solution 32 House of Lords subject to more detailed the site can begin in 2020, which would feasibility work being undertaken. in turn ensure that the restoration and Summary of benefits 34 renewal of the Palace of Westminster can This document presents for consultation take place as soon as possible. Consultation and next steps 36 our plans for the Northern Estate – a group of 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st I do hope you find this information helpful Contact us 38 century buildings, most of which are in explaining the proposals and we look listed and of considerable heritage forward to receiving your feedback as part value – located next door to the Palace of the consultation process. of Westminster and which are already in use by MPs, their staff and the staff of the House of Commons.

May 2019 1 The need for the restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster

The Restoration and Renewal Programme has been established to tackle the essential work that needs to be done to protect the heritage of the Palace of Westminster (the Houses of Parliament) and ensure it can continue to serve as home to the UK Parliament in the 21st century and beyond.

There has been significant under- investment in the Palace since the 1940s, when parts of it were renovated following bomb damage during the Second World War. Despite being one of the most iconic buildings in the world, since its construction in the mid-1800s, many parts Fire safety systems are antiquated Some of the essential mechanical Repairs are needed to preserve have never undergone major renovation. and fire safety officers are required to and electrical services are up Victoria Tower, home to the patrol the Palace 24 hours a day to spot to 130 years old, such as heating, Parliamentary Archives which collects, The heating, ventilation, water, signs of fire. drainage, lighting, water, ventilation and preserves and makes accessible the four drainage and electrical systems are communications. million records of UK Parliament. now antiquated with asbestos needing to be removed and improvements to fire safety required. There is extensive decay to the stonework, roofs are leaking and gutters and downpipes are corroded. The plumbing regularly fails, causing visible and sometimes irreversible damage to the Palace’s carved stonework ceilings and Pugin- designed historic interiors.

The building is deteriorating faster than it can be repaired. The longer this essential work is left, the greater the risk that it will suffer a sudden failure that makes it uninhabitable and brings a sudden stop to the work of Parliament. Because of the size and layout of the Palace, it is thought to be the biggest and most complex renovation programme of any single building this The Palace was built using Asbestos, which was used The vast majority of the Palace’s country has known. Anston limestone which quickly extensively during the post- 4,000 bronze windows do not close Some essential work is already being began to decay and very little was war rebuilding period, is present properly, letting water in and heat undertaken, including at Westminster done to prevent its decline during the throughout the building. out and many of the most historically Hall and to the Elizabeth Tower 19th century. significant parts of the Palace are at risk. (popularly known as ‘Big Ben’).

2 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 3 Indicative The plan agreed by Parliament development timeline 2018 • Essential refurbishment works commenced for Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben). • Refurbishment begins on 1 Derby The decision making process Gate and Commissioner’s Yard Gate. • Parliament takes possession of 2012 September 2016 Richmond House from the Government. • The Restoration and Renewal • Following its year-long inquiry, the • Fire safety work carried out. Programme is established to examine Committee concludes that the lowest 2019 options to undertake the major risk, most cost-effective and quickest • Consultation on the Northern Estate renovation works needed to the option to undertake the essential proposals through the Spring and Palace of Westminster. works would be for all Members Summer. and staff to move out of the Palace December 2013 – June 2015 • Legislation to formally establish temporarily in one single phase while • A consortium is appointed to produce a Delivery Authority and Sponsor works take place. It also concludes an Independent Options Appraisal Board, similar to those used for the with illustrative costs and timescales that “the best decant solution for the London Olympics, to be introduced for a major refurbishment of the House of Commons appears to be to Parliament (subject to the Palace of Westminster. Published a solution based around Richmond Parliamentary timetable). in June 2015, this compares three House and the Northern Estate.” • Northern Estate Programme to options – a rolling programme of The preferred option for the House of Parliament’s submit a suite of planning applications Northern works whilst the building remains in Lords is to be temporarily relocated to to Westminster City Council. Estate Temporarily relocating House use; the refurbishment of half the the QEII Conference Centre, subject building at a time with each House of Commons to further feasibility work. 2020 vacating in turn; and the full move- • Construction work to begin out of the Palace of Westminster September 2017 Palace of Westminster on Northern Estate Programme enabling all works to be delivered • The Murphy Perimeter Security House (subject to planning approvals). together. The report concludes the Review, which followed the of Lords • Planning applications submitted to fully vacated option is the lowest cost, Westminster attacks, strengthens provide temporary accommodation fastest option and “provides the best the case for MPs’ accommodation for the House of Lords at the QEII opportunity to mitigate disruption and to be located within a continuous Conference Centre. nuisance over the long-term.” single secure site. Of all the potential July 2015 options considered, only the Temporarily relocating 2021 Northern Estate could provide such • Refurbishment works of the • A Joint Select Committee, made up space within a secure perimeter. Elizabeth Tower (Big Ben) of Members of both Houses, is set QE II Conference to be completed. up to consider the findings of the January – February 2018 Centre Independent Options Appraisal report • The Government tables two motions Early 2020s and make recommendations. At this on restoration and renewal of the • Planning applications submitted time, the Restoration and Renewal Palace of Westminster, with a debate for restoration and renewal of the Programme began assessing a range in the House of Commons in late Palace of Westminster. of temporary accommodation sites for January and in the Lords in early the Palace of Westminster. February. Both Houses back the Mid 2020s Spring 2016 decision for a full move as the “best • Work expected to be completed to and most cost effective way” of enable the temporary relocation of • A review of potential relocation carrying out the works. Parliament. options is conducted by the Restoration and Renewal Programme List of key House of Commons functions to move from • Work to begin on the restoration and This document sets out the team alongside the Joint Committee the Palace of Westminster into Parliament’s Northern Estate: renewal of the Palace of Westminster. proposals to temporarily relocate deliberations. Given the well- • Chamber and division lobbies • Press Gallery Early 2030s established need to be in close the House of Commons to • Continued public access • Catering facilities proximity to Government departments Parliament’s Northern Estate. • Restoration and Renewal Programme • Committee Rooms • Welfare (cycle spaces, shower, in and around Westminster, this of the Palace of Westminster is locker and changing spaces) included Horse Guards Parade, the • Procedural and library services completed, enabling the functions • Visitor and Education Centre Foreign and Commonwealth Office, • Offices for 200 MPs and their staff of the House of Commons and House HM Treasury, QEII Conference Centre • Ministerial and Whips’ accommodation of Lords to move back. and Richmond House on Whitehall. • Consolidating the buildings within the Parliamentary Estate.

4 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 5 The Northern Estate site

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

The Northern Estate site is surrounded by a number of significant neighbouring buildings, including New Scotland Yard to the east of Richmond House, the Whitehall Parliament Street Ministry of Defence to the north and other Government departments across Parliament Street such as HM Treasury, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Cabinet Office and Downing Street. To the south of the site are the Palace of Westminster and Parliament Square.

The work to the Northern Estate is the Richmond House Laundry Road Norman Shaw South 1 Canon Row Portcullis House essential first step which enables the This Grade II* listed building includes Formerly a yard behind Norman Shaw This Grade II* listed building, completed in Built in 1906, originally as a police Officially opened in 2001 providing restoration and renewal of the Palace Richmond Terrace, built originally as North this road has been used for 1906, originally provided additional offices station, this Grade II* listed building offices for MPs and their staff of Westminster. That is why we are Georgian town houses in 1824. This servicing and access and bin storage for the Metropolitan Police and is now used is currently being refurbished. with meeting and catering spaces, consulting on the plans now, before was subsequently incorporated into a since Richmond House was built. as offices. Last refurbished in the 1990s, supplementing the limited space in the submitting planning applications to new structure by Whitfield Associates essential services now need updating. Canon Row Palace of Westminster and surrounding Westminster Council later in 2019. in 1984 called “Richmond House” Norman Shaw North Many areas of the building, including the A key street existing since medieval buildings. which also includes Grade II listed 85 Originally built as the first headquarters main entrance, have no wheelchair access. times running from Bridge Street to Whitehall and 54 Parliament Street. for the Metropolitan Police in 1890, this Derby Gate, now within the secure 1 Parliament Street Richmond House was occupied by the Grade I listed building is currently used 1 Derby Gate perimeter of the Parliamentary Estate This Grade II listed building was built Department of Health until they moved as office space. The building has not 1 Derby Gate is a Grade II* listed but which currently provides a poor in 1888 as offices for London and out in 2017 and was acquired by the been refurbished for 40 years, its façade building and was originally the Whitehall pedestrian environment. North Western Railway Estate Office, Parliamentary Estate in early 2018. The and roof are in urgent need of repair and Club, a Victorian Gentlemen’s Club, built the largest company in the world building suffers from low floor-to-ceiling essential services need replacing. in the manner of a Venetian palace. 2 and 3 Parliament Street on the stock market at the time. It heights and irregular floorplates and Renovation work is currently underway. These Grade II* listed buildings form was redeveloped in the 1980s and is levels which provide poor access for 53 Parliament Street part of an 18th century development. currently used for offices and catering people with disabilities and inefficient This Grade II listed building was built in Commissioner’s Yard These buildings need modernising and facilities, but the building is inefficient spaces. The width of the stair towers 1896 and is currently used as offices. Commissioner’s Yard is located between currently have limited accessibility. and suffers from poor access to Canon are too narrow to meet today’s the Norman Shaw North and South Row and the rest of the Northern Estate. requirements for safe access. buildings, and named in recognition of the site’s former use as the headquarters for the Metropolitan Police.

6 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 7 A summary of the proposals for the Northern Estate

The proposals for the Northern Improvements to the Grade I listed A new building within the Significant conservation A link to connect Portcullis House Estate will create a temporary These proposals will: Norman Shaw North Building, with a existing courtyard of the Grade improvements to other historic with the wider Northern Estate, House of Commons Chamber and new lightweight glass atrium created in II* Norman Shaw South that will buildings, including to the rear with expanded catering facilities associated facilities, together • Create an inclusive and the courtyard, re-activating this historic become office space for MPs and staff elevations of the buildings fronting to the rear of the building opening with workspace for MPs and staff welcoming environment space, along with conservation repairs while providing enhanced courtyard Canon Row and at 2 and 3 Parliament out onto Canon Row for informal and public access and educational designed to maintain public to this highly significant building and space. Street to improve internal layouts and meetings. No other changes are being provision. It is the essential first access to democracy for the internal improvements to meet modern modernise plant and equipment. proposed for this building. step to enable the restoration time the temporary Chamber standards. and renewal of the Palace of is in use. This includes new public Westminster and will deliver a and press galleries, public spaces transformed Parliamentary Estate for visitors and education and for future generations. participation spaces.

• Create office space for MPs, A temporary House of Commons their staff and the other staff Chamber within a substantially who will need to relocate from redeveloped Richmond House, the Palace of Westminster, alongside essential facilities required allowing all 650 MPs to be based around the Chamber for the on the Northern Estate and within continued functioning of Parliament, a secure area including Ministers, in addition to new workspace. The Senior Opposition Members and Commissioner’s Yard proposals retain Richmond Terrace, Whips offices. the Whitehall façade and 85 Whitehall and 54 Parliament Street. The existing • Modernise all of the buildings Cathedral Room, which currently within the Northern Estate, provides a space overlooking the Laundry Road which are in critical need of Cenotaph during ceremonial events, investment to bring them up will be replaced with a larger space to standard, upgrade heating, and terrace overlooking Whitehall. electrical and fire safety systems, maximise the usable space, create Bridge Street Bridge

Richmond Terrace high quality working conditions Modernised servicing and Canon Row for staff and improve the access arrangements across environmental performance of the the entire Northern Estate, buildings to reduce operating costs with new basement levels under for the future. Richmond House providing efficient arrangements for deliveries, waste • Transform access for people management, recycling, utilities, with disabilities across the common kitchens and other shared Northern Estate, which is facilities including a new Energy currently a real issue and prevents Centre to transform sustainability access for wheelchair users or and energy efficiency. Enhance security and improvements to the external environment, New internal landscaping, The complete re-modelling of people with other disabilities to including a temporary visitor access pavilion in front of Richmond House, to improve circulation across the the rear 1980s elevation of 1 much of the estate. which would be removed once the House of Commons returns to the Palace of estate and the setting of the listed Parliament Street, to provide Westminster. This is in addition to widening the pavement on a section of Whitehall buildings, re-establishing the historic additional flexible, modern workspace. • Enhance security to provide and Parliament Street to incorporate space for visitors to queue within a secure Canon Row as the central spine a safe environment for the Image: Aerial view of the Northern Estate perimeter. connecting the buildings together into temporary House of Commons proposals with the key interventions a ‘campus’ environment. chamber and for those who work highlighted. in or visit the Northern Estate.

8 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 9 A new temporary House of Commons Chamber

The proposals will deliver a Essential facilities for the functioning A new press gallery and education and temporary House of Commons of Parliament will be provided around participation spaces will be provided Chamber within a substantially the Chamber, including division (voting) and new public areas will enhance redeveloped Richmond House. lobbies, Committee Rooms, catering public access to democracy while the facilities, and offices for the Speaker, temporary Chamber is in use. The temporary Chamber has been Clerk of the House, Serjeant at Arms and We are interested in your feedback carefully designed to replicate the familiar other core functions. character and layout of the existing about what publicly accessible facilities House of Commons Chamber but will These areas have all been assessed and you would like to see included around provide a greater level of accessibility for compromises have been made to ensure the temporary Chamber. MPs and visitors, including an accessible best value for money for the taxpayer, public gallery. for example with fewer committee rooms provided, more limited dining options and other space requirements optimised.

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.

10 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 11 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 is being carefully designed to be adaptable for a range of legacy uses. Indicative image of potential legacy use for the temporary Chamber as additional workspace. 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 Parliamentary Estate.

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. • A conference facility, including for international delegations. • A venue for debates and interactive/ educational events. • An exhibition space for parliamentary art and archives. • Additional workspace for staff.

The precise future legacy use will be Indicative image of potential legacy use for the temporary Chamber as an archive/reading room. determined through the design process for the Palace of Westminster Restoration Similarly the office space for MPs and and Renewal Programme, which will their staff has also been designed with explore the best permanent locations for 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/ flexibility in mind. When used by MPs the full range of parliamentary and public exhibition space. the requirement is primarily for smaller functions. It may be that this enables modular offices and these spaces can space to be made available within the be quickly converted into a more open Palace of Westminster to allow greater plan working environment should that public access to democracy. be desired.

12 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 13 A new purpose built building at Richmond House fit for a 21st century Parliament

The design approach retains the building at 85 Whitehall The Northern Estate Programme the three elements of Richmond and 54 Parliament Street) whilst recognises that the building which 1 2 3 House visible from Whitehall (the substantially redeveloping the replaces Richmond House needs to Georgian Richmond Terrace, the remaining elements of the building provide exceptional architecture and Whitehall façade designed by Sir to house the Chamber and provide long-lasting public legacy. William Whitfield in the 1980s and space for MPs and staff.

The architectural approach to the Richmond House design

The Whitehall façade of Internally the Whitehall The Grade II* listed Richmond House is retained façade opens out on to a Richmond Terrace and and enhanced to form a key triple-height Central Lobby, Grade II listed 85 Whitehall component of the new building. The full with key views back out to Whitehall and and 54 Parliament Street three-storeys of the façade are then the Cenotaph. are both retained and will be revealed as the backdrop to the new Central refurbished externally and internally. Lobby. A new Cathedral Room will be created, larger in space than in the existing Richmond House, with a terrace providing views over Whitehall and the Cenotaph.

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1 A new full height atrium, A new flexible six storey A three-storey basement is known as the Street, continues building will provide a long-term also being provided to include Canon Row into the heart of the legacy as additional workspace for MPs the majority of plant and machinery for building. Referencing St Stephen’s and House staff. both the new Richmond House and the Hall in the Palace of Westminster, the wider Northern Estate. This ensures that street provides one of the primary visible machinery is kept to a minimum, Members’ entrance routes to the House allowing the roofs and spaces between of Commons Chamber from the wider the new and refurbished buildings to be

An illustrative plan showing the proposed uses at Richmond House. Northern Estate. as high quality as possible.

14 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 15 Design principles for the new Richmond House

The proposed design of Richmond House references the The proposed building form references the architecture of the adjacent Norman Shaw North defining character of the unique context of the Northern and is designed to create a considered streetscape between the buildings. Estate and is conceived as a contemporary addition that knits together the retained listed buildings with new elements.

A stone plinth references the surrounding New stair towers reference Sir William context of Whitehall and ties the new Whitfield’s approach to the design of the elements to the existing Richmond Terrace. existing Richmond House.

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

Indicative image of Richmond House, shown next to the existing Norman Shaw South building.

16 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 17 Design principles for the new Richmond House

A façade detail of masonry and stone banding echoes the elevations Three-sided bays reflect the arrangement of offices within of Norman Shaw North, Norman Shaw South and the existing Richmond House. and draw inspiration from the Palace of Westminster.

Indicative image of the proposed Richmond House building as viewed from Commissioner’s Yard. Indicative image of the proposed Richmond House building as viewed from Laundry Road.

18 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 19 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 and restoration of 1-3 Parliament delivery and service yard to a restaurant and meeting space covered with a glass Street, 2-4 Canon Row, Norman roof. Together with the reinstatement of the oculus and stone floor finish within its Shaw North, Norman Shaw South courtyard space, this will greatly improve the experience of this space and allow and Richmond Terrace. people to appreciate the quality of this Grade I listed building. The exterior of the The buildings were originally designed to building will also be restored and the internal spaces modernised. 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 – maximises their use and secures their conservation and repair into the long term.

1 Derby Gate and 1 Canon Row will not be part of planning applications for the Northern Estate Programme as they are already currently being refurbished.

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

New surfacing, lighting and de-cluttering 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 to remove unsightly service runs and plant areas and replace them with better designed modern alternatives.

With the temporary House of Commons occupying the site for several years, many thousands of visitors over this time will be able to see this rich heritage for the first time.

Existing Norman Shaw North courtyard. Indicative image of the proposed Norman Shaw North atrium and a new glazed courtyard roof.

20 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 21 Conserving the Northern Estate

Norman Shaw South Norman Shaw South will also see improvements and repair to all elevations and the roof. A new building 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 created as well as a new level entrance to Commissioner’s Yard providing a better connection to Richmond House.

Existing Norman Shaw South courtyard. Indicative image of the proposed courtyard within Norman Shaw South.

22 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 23 Conserving the Northern Estate

A link between Portcullis House and Norman Shaw South Parliament Street buildings A covered link will be created between Portcullis House and Norman Shaw South with 2 and 3 Parliament Street will be retained and refurbished to bring them up to modern expanded catering facilities to cope with the increased number of people who will be standards. The 1980s rear of 1 Parliament Street will be re-modelled to provide more working within the Northern Estate. This will open out onto Canon Row and improve accessible office space, while the current Parliament Street elevation will be retained. the connections and accessibility between Portcullis House and the other buildings.

Existing space between Portcullis House and Norman Shaw South.

Indicative image of the proposed link between Portcullis House and Norman Shaw South, looking towards Canon Row. Existing elevation of Parliament Street buildings, as viewed from Canon Row.

Indicative image of the proposed link between Portcullis House and Norman Shaw South, looking towards Victoria Embankment. Proposed elevation of Parliament Street buildings, as viewed from Canon Row.

24 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 25 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.

Improved landscaping and connections within the estate Commissioner’s Yard This will be achieved through creating new entrances to the 1980s buildings Laundry Road along Canon Row and utilising the existing Photo of existing Commissioner’s Yard. step-free courtyard access into Norman Shaw North and South to provide a Street Bridge Richmond Terrace Canon Row better interaction between the street and the buildings, with the re-instatement of this historic route. The creation of a pedestrian friendly external environment Derby Gate including new areas of communal space Parliament Street will enable more people to appreciate the historic landscape. Area plan showing key routes within the Northern Estate.

Indicative image showing the proposed improvements to Commissioner’s Yard.

Photo of the existing Laundry Road. Photo of existing Canon Row.

Indicative image showing the proposed improvements to Laundry Road. Indicative image showing the proposed improvements to Canon Row.

26 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 27 Streetscape and perimeter security

Special arrangements for security Along parts of Whitehall and Parliament There will be few changes to the Victoria Minimising transport impacts need to be in place during the Street, demountable railings will be Embankment elevations, which will see The proposals would remove one southbound lane of Parliament Street on a short section of the period the temporary House of introduced, sections of which are the existing railings increase in height road to accommodate a wider pavement width at the proposed visitor entrance to Richmond Commons Chamber is in operation. being designed to be removable for to three metres, while the Bridge Street House. The junction between Parliament Street and Bridge Street would remain unchanged, These have been designed to be ceremonial occasions, for example on elevation will be unchanged. minimising impact on vehicle movements onto Westminster Bridge and towards Millbank. removed once the Restoration and Remembrance Day. Renewal Programme is complete. We are also looking to introduce new The pavement in this section of the public wayfinding including exploring A temporary new pavilion building in front street is being widened to allow more digital solutions. of Richmond House will contain airport space for pedestrians and visitors. style security to enable visitors and the public safe access into the building.

Current plan view showing Whitehall and Parliament Street with four vehicle lanes.

Proposed plan view showing Whitehall and Parliament Street with one southbound lane removed to widen the pavement.

Exploring options for railings We are exploring a range of design options to the temporary railings that would be installed as part of the proposals. Some possible examples are detailed below The proposed Parliament Street elevation showing a temporary new visitor pavilion and three metre high railings. but we would welcome any thoughts on possible designs and motifs.

The proposed Bridge Street elevation showing no change. The proposed Victoria Embankment elevation showing a small Artist’s impression of potential design options for railings which allow transparency through to buildings on the Estate whilst remaining increase in the height of the railings. respectful of the Heritage context.

28 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 29 Exploring options for the Northern Estate

Of all the options considered Alternative approach: spreading the impact across the Northern Estate Alternative approach: the use of temporary buildings within London, only the Northern Locating the Chamber Estate can deliver the spatial within Portcullis House requirements for the House of Commons to operate within a single The option of locating the new House safe and secure site. of Commons Chamber within the The delivery of a temporary House of atrium of Portcullis House has been Commons Chamber, associated facilities explored and found to be unworkable and workspace for MPs and their staff for the following reasons: to move from the Palace of Westminster to the Northern Estate is a significant • The atrium space is too small to challenge to fit within a constrained and accommodate the Chamber itself already occupied site, full of listed buildings. and the division lobbies and the public and press galleries. Considerable thought has gone into balancing critical, functional requirements, • Current facilities within Portcullis heritage and value for money. House would need to be relocated elsewhere. The original option of locating the temporary Chamber within the courtyard • Additional space is still needed of Richmond House, when properly for MPs to relocate from the tested, was found to create a number Palace of Westminster and of issues. Critically, accommodating This option incorporated the temporary • A basement and infill development The use of temporary buildings, to be • Even with an additional building, be accommodated within the both the Chamber and the adjacent Chamber within the courtyard of in the courtyard of Norman Shaw removed later, rather than permanent further temporary structures would Northern Estate. division (voting) lobbies requires partial Richmond House, but still required: North, which was likely to cause new structures, was assessed but be needed across the Estate in redevelopment of Richmond House. • Enhancements to the building an unacceptable level of harm to a demonstrated to be unsuitable for the order to create the spaces required, services (power, broadcasting, Further masterplan options were also • The partial redevelopment of Grade I listed building. following reasons: harming the setting of listed heating, ventilation and air developed to consider how space across Richmond House in order to buildings and impacting the quality conditioning) would be required, the whole Northern Estate could be accommodate the Chamber and • Substantial redevelopment of the • There is not enough space within of their working environment. The both to improve resilience and to maximised to deliver the requirements. Division Lobbies. buildings along Parliament Street, the existing Northern Estate for temporary structures themselves deal with increased occupancy. with only their frontages retained. temporary structures to meet all of would create a poor quality working From an initial long list, three principal • Significant interventions to almost all the decant requirements. options were developed for consideration other buildings within the Northern Such an approach was unlikely to be environment during their use. • The location of the temporary – spreading the impact across the Chamber within the atrium space Estate in order to accommodate the supportable given the level of harm • There would therefore be a • The construction requirements Northern Estate; utilising temporary would bring additional security additional spaces required. created to a range of listed buildings requirement for an additional are similar to that for permanent buildings; and focusing the intervention on considerations and would require across the Estate. temporary building outside the buildings, but would need Richmond House. The option of utilising new load bearing structures to current boundary of the Northern dismantling and so would be Portcullis House was also explored. distribute the weight of the new Estate on land not owned by wasteful. elements. In this section we explain why the Parliament, creating additional cost and risk for the project. The Public Accounts Committee when alternative options offer a far worse • The scale of these works would reviewing this option agreed that such outcome with much less benefit than require the building to be emptied • This building would have a an approach should be dismissed and the preferred approach of focusing the during the work, removing detrimental impact to the special would not represent value for money for intervention on Richmond House. Committee Rooms and MPs’ character of Whitehall and the the taxpayer. setting of Richmond Terrace and offices which would need to other nearby listed buildings. be re-provided elsewhere and introducing a further decant phase into the Restoration and Renewal programme.

30 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 31 The design solution

The approach being proposed allows the creation of an exceptional and flexible new building at Richmond House to meet the accommodation requirements of the House of Commons, whilst conserving multiple listed buildings across the Northern Estate and providing a lasting legacy.

Illustrative image showing all of the design proposals for the Northern Estate.

32 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 33 Summary of benefits

The Northern Estate Programme is one of the most important development projects ever undertaken by Parliament and it will create a lasting long-term legacy across the entire site.

The plans have therefore been designed from the outset to deliver the maximum Enabling the restoration Ensuring the continued The fastest route to delivery A safe and secure Improving public access possible public benefit, not just while the and renewal of the Palace functioning of British and the best value for money environment for MPs, to the House of Commons temporary House of Commons Chamber of Westminster democracy for the taxpayer staff and visitors Approximately one million people pass is in operation but long into the future. The proposals for the Northern Estate The temporary House of Commons The works to the Palace of Westminster The plans enable all MPs and their staff through Parliament’s doors every year, Once the restoration and renewal of are the essential first step to enable the Chamber together with its associated need to take place urgently given the to work from a safe and secure site. including school children, constituents, the Palace of Westminster is complete, restoration and renewal of the Palace of facilities will ensure the continued current state of the building and both It is also essential to remain in close business, charities and tourists. Public the new facilities provided within Westminster, arguably the single most running of Government and Parliament Houses of Parliament have endorsed the proximity to the House of Lords and engagement is a vital element of our the Northern Estate will also enable important listed building in the country. for what is expected to be a period of plan to fully vacate the Palace. These other Parliamentary and Government Parliamentary democracy and the Parliament to consolidate its use of It will be protected and modernised for several years while the works to the proposals represent the fastest, best buildings around Whitehall to allow the new spaces provided within Richmond existing buildings and reduce running future generations. Palace of Westminster take place. value option to deliver the required formal and informal interactions that House will maintain public access to costs. spaces and create a lasting legacy for take place between the two Houses and the Chamber and Committee Rooms, Parliament. Government departments to continue. alongside the provision of new education and participation spaces.

Sustainable and Transforming access for Modern facilities A wider legacy Significant A major efficient buildings people with disabilities for Parliament for Parliament heritage benefits economic boost The plans allow for the effective and A priority of the Restoration and The proposals will create a fit for The flexibility for future use built With major investment and sensitive The works to the Northern Estate efficient running of Parliament during Renewal Programme will be to bring the purpose modern estate for generations into the new Richmond House improvements to listed buildings and the Restoration and Renewal the period the temporary House of Palace up to the modern accessibility to come. The new Richmond House brings with it the potential to free across the Northern Estate, their Programme represent one of the Commons Chamber is in use, with standards that are expected of a delivers much needed new flexible up spaces within the Palace of condition is greatly enhanced UK’s most important construction reduced running costs and more public building and this is an essential workspace whilst major investment Westminster itself. For example some and their long term use secured projects, creating thousands of skilled sustainable buildings. From an energy component of the works to the Northern into the existing buildings has been facilities could remain permanently whilst minimising changes to the jobs including a number of work and carbon perspective, the works Estate as well. Accessibility over the a fundamental requirement of the based within the Northern Estate, historic character of Whitehall and placements and apprenticeships, will deliver significant improvement in whole Northern Estate site will be vastly Parliamentary Estate for years. allowing space within the Palace to Parliament Street. and benefiting the economy. efficiency and include a new site-wide improved, including to the temporary be prioritised for improved public energy centre. House of Commons Chamber. access and an expanded education programme.

34 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 35 Consultation and next steps

We are currently consulting on We would like your feedback on these proposals and, in addition the proposals set out in this to general comments, are particularly interested in the following: booklet before submitting a suite of planning applications to Our design approach Westminster City Council later in 1 Do you have any views about the proposed changes to the 2019. The Council will then also Northern Estate? undertake its own consultation on the plans. Improving public access to the House of Commons We are engaging closely with MPs 2 What publicly accessible facilities would you like to see and Peers, their staff, House staff, included, especially around the temporary Chamber and statutory bodies and interested parties Committee Rooms? including Westminster City Council, the Greater London Authority, Transport Enabling a flexible legacy for the for London, Historic England and other 3 Northern Estate buildings for the long-term heritage bodies. Is there anything else we should consider in order to ensure We are also consulting the local that the new Richmond House and the other buildings can communities around the site, including provide the best long term legacy? via a staffed public exhibition so that local residents and members of the We would like all comments by 28 June 2019 and you public can understand and feedback on can send us your views via the following channels: the proposals. All consultation materials are also available online. Complete our comments form online: northernestate.parliament.uk In some areas our proposals are determined by the specific requirements Email us: for the temporary House of Commons [email protected] Chamber and the need for the House of Commons to operate in a safe and Call us: secure environment while the works to 0800 307 7964 the Palace of Westminster take place. However we are interested to receive Freepost: comments on the proposals, all of which Northern Estate Programme, 7 Millbank, Westminster, SW1P 3JA will be shared with the Northern Estate Programme staff and the design team. You can view these proposals at: northernestate.parliament.uk

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

Indicative image of the proposals for Richmond House as viewed from Laundry Road.

36 A plan for Parliament’s Northern Estate May 2019 37 Contact us

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

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

To respond to this consultation you can do so via the following channels:

Complete our comments form online: northernestate.parliament.uk

Email us: [email protected]

Call us: 0800 307 7964

Freepost: Northern Estate Programme 7 Millbank, 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 on the details above.