Westminster Hall Conservation Project
11 December 2015 (updated on 15 December 2015)
Westminster Hall is currently undergoing large-scale refurbishment work, including the installation of fire-detection and lighting systems, cleaning of the walls and roof structures, and repairs to leaks and other damage.
The Hall, which dates back to 1099, is the oldest part of the parliamentary estate and forms part of the Westminster UNESCO world heritage site. The Hall has been in constant use since it was first constructed, hosting many well-known trials, coronation banquets, the lying-in-state of monarchs and prime ministers, and addresses by world leaders.
In advance of the next phase of works, stone conservation was successfully completed in January 2015. Planned works are anticipated to commence in summer 2016, these will include internal roof conservation, installing fire-detection and lighting systems, and repairing damage caused by leaks.
Conservation is being planned so that visitors and staff may continue to use the Hall whilst the works are undertaken.
Planned works
Lighting
New lights will be installed to improve visibility and to highlight the architecture of the Hall. This will also provide a robust and flexible facility to suit many of the different events that take place in the Hall. The new lighting will be low maintenance and energy efficient.
Lantern
Repair of the lantern is essential, due to ongoing leaks. Temporary measures have been put in place to manage this, but to ensure the protection of the historic structure and long term safety of the Hall, permanent repairs must be undertaken.
Cleaning and repairing the internal roof
The oak hammer beam roof in Westminster Hall, commissioned by Richard II in 1393, is the largest in Northern Europe, spanning more than 20 metres. The internal roof timbers will be repaired and cleaned to remove the significant build-up of dust and debris. Elements of the tracery (the decorative wood carving within the roof structure) will also be repaired, cleaned and conserved.
Fire system
A fire detection system will be installed as part of a Fire Safety Improvement Works project across the Parliamentary estate.
- Find out more about the history of Westminster Hall
- Take a virtual tour of Westminster Hall and the Common's Grand Committee Room