Renovation of the Palace of Westminster: costs up to 40 billion pounds and duration up to 61 years

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

The first variant, called “Full Decant,” foresees that both the House of Commons and the House of Lords move out of the building for the entire duration of the renovation works. This solution would require between 19 and 24 years and would involve costs of up to £15.6 billion. This way the work could be carried out more intensively and efficiently.

The second option, known as “Enhanced Maintenance and Improvement+” (EMI+), involves a progressive renovation during which some parts of Parliament would continue to be used during the construction phase. This method extends over a period between 38 and 61 years and is assessed with costs of up to £39.2 billion. The advantage lies in the continuation of parliamentary activities, but the longer duration of the works considerably increases overall costs.

Regardless of the choice of renovation strategy, the report recommends an initial phase lasting a maximum of seven years, with an estimated cost of about £3 billion. This work includes the construction of temporary chambers and offices, renovation interventions at Victoria Tower, and preparatory restorations at the medieval Cloister Court.

The NAO report underlines the urgency of the renovation, as the building presents significant structural problems. These include outdated mechanical and electrical systems, fire risks, and a high presence of asbestos. Currently, £1.5 million per week is spent just on maintenance and repairs, without resolving the underlying deficiencies.

The decision on the preferred renovation variant will be made in the coming years. A final choice is expected at the latest by mid-2030. This decision will be crucial for the future state of the parliamentary building and for defining the renovation works.

The renovation of the Palace of Westminster is not only a technical construction project but also a political challenge. Critics call for greater transparency and accountability in the management of public funds, given the high costs and long duration of the intervention. At the same time, the ongoing postponement contributes to a further increase in costs.

The course and outcome of this renovation project will have a significant impact on British politics and public trust in major state projects. The requirements for heritage conservation and the need for modern safety standards must be carefully balanced.