§ Lord Christopherasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether the new wing of Somerset House will be the location of the Supreme Court; and, if so, whether a heritage assessment thereof and of the footbridge between the new and west wings, built in 1873, will be undertaken to ensure that all necessary architectural features are maintained and that any necessary restorations are made. [HL4218]
§ Baroness Ashton of UphollandThe new wing of Somerset House is one of the two options under consideration, along with Middlesex Guildhall, as a potential location for the Supreme Court.
As part of the analysis and evaluation of both buildings, there are ongoing discussions with English Heritage and Westminster Planning Authority on possible designs. To support this process a conservation plan is being prepared for the new wing of Somerset House, including the footbridge between the new and west wings.