Rehabilitation of the Palace of Westminster: Costs of up to £40 billion and duration of up to 61 years

London – 16.06.2026: The extensive refurbishment of the Palace of Westminster, home to the British Parliament, faces a considerable challenge. A recent report from the National Audit Office (NAO) estimates that renovation costs could reach up to 40 billion pounds and extend over a period of up to 61 years. This estimate is based on two different refurbishment options currently under discussion.

The first variant, called “Full Decant,” envisions both the House of Commons and the House of Lords moving out of the building for the entire duration of the renovations. This solution would take between 19 and 24 years and cost up to 15.6 billion pounds. This way, the work could be carried out more concentrated and efficiently.

The second option, known as “Enhanced Maintenance and Improvement+” (EMI+), involves a progressive refurbishment during which parts of Parliament would continue to be used while work is being done. This method spans a period of 38 to 61 years and is estimated to cost up to 39.2 billion pounds. The advantage lies in the continuity of parliamentary operations, but the longer construction duration considerably increases the total costs.

Regardless of the maintenance strategy chosen, the report recommends an initial phase lasting up to seven years with an approximate cost of 3 billion pounds. This work includes the construction of temporary chambers and offices, renovations in the Victoria Tower, and preparatory restorations in the medieval cloister, Cloister Court.

The NAO report emphasizes the urgency of the refurbishment, as the building faces significant structural problems. These include outdated mechanical and electrical systems, fire risks, and high levels of asbestos. Currently, 1.5 million pounds are spent weekly solely on maintenance and repairs, without addressing the underlying deficiencies.

The decision on the preferred refurbishment variant will be made in the coming years. A definitive choice is expected by mid-2030 at the latest. This decision will be crucial for the future state of the Parliament building and the planning of renovation work.

The refurbishment of the Palace of Westminster represents not only a technical construction project but also a political challenge. Critics demand greater transparency and accountability in the handling of public funds in view of the high costs and prolonged duration. At the same time, ongoing delays contribute to the possibility that costs may continue to rise.

The development and outcome of this refurbishment project will significantly influence British politics and public confidence in major state projects. Requirements for heritage conservation and the need to meet modern safety standards will need to be carefully assessed.