Delays in the restoration of the Palace of Westminster could result in additional costs to taxpayers approaching £500 million, according to parliamentary figures. The historic building, home to the Houses of Parliament, has required extensive repairs for more than a decade due to deteriorating electrical and mechanical systems, as well as issues with sewage and asbestos. Current maintenance expenses are reported to be approximately £1.5 million per week.

Proposals for the renovation indicate a broad range of completion timelines, varying from eight to as long as 61 years, with total costs potentially rising to £39 billion. Michael Forsyth, Speaker of the House of Lords, has called on the government to initiate a debate aimed at addressing what he describes as “eyewatering” and “intolerable” delays in the project. He warned that by next year, the additional costs incurred could reach up to £479 million—exceeding by more than £100 million the amount spent on the Buckingham Palace refurbishment, which took a decade to complete.

The project has been under scrutiny, with an ongoing investigation by the Public Accounts Committee examining the scope and management of the restoration proposals. Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the Cabinet Office indicated that a debate on the matter will be scheduled “in due course,” without providing a specific timeline. The restoration of the Palace of Westminster remains a significant and complex undertaking amid concerns over escalating costs and prolonged timelines.