§ Mr. SwayneTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement about the future use of the Pierhead Building in Cardiff Bay. [72279]
§ Mr. MichaelThe Pierhead Building is a unique and attractive building right at the heart of Cardiff Bay which stands next to the site for the new Assembly building. It provides a powerful visual link for the Assembly with the industrial and maritime heritage of Wales. Originally it has been thought that it could be used as the office accommodation for the First Secretary and Cabinet. After careful consideration I concluded that their offices should be in the same building as the offices of Assembly Members which will be located in Crickhowell House along with the temporary Chamber and committee rooms. This will encourage the Cabinet members and Assembly Members—and their staff—in working together as part of a single team.
Appropriate arrangements have now been achieved in Crickhowell House, allowing the space in Pierhead Building to be used to address other issues. It is planned to bring forward detailed plans in the near future enabling Pierhead Building to be used for educational and public information purposes and as a function hall. It will also provide office accommodation for a small number of staff.