§ Mr. Rhodri MorganTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what is the basis for his calculation of the cost of(a) refurbishment and (b) adaptation of the Cardiff City Hall for the purposes of housing the Welsh Assembly; and if he will place in the Library a copy of the supporting documentation on which this calculation is based. [18522]
§ Mr. Ron DaviesThe full cost of bringing City Hall, Cardiff into a suitable condition for the Assembly was estimated at just over £32 million on the basis of purchase at the District Valuer's market valuation of £3.5 million. The minimum cost of adapting and equipping City Hall for a modern Assembly building would have been £8.5 million taking account of the building's grade 2* listing. Further essential repairs, refurbishment and upgrading would cost £20 million which could be spread over a period of years.
These costings are based upon a schedule of accommodation requirements prepared by my officials covering both refurbishment and adaptation. A calculation was prepared on that basis by my professional property advisers. I have placed a copy of that schedule in the Library.
§ Mr. JenkinTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with Cardiff City Council concerning the possible use of Cardiff City Chambers for the proposed Welsh Assembly; and what estimate he has made of the costs of establishing the Assembly. [18179]
§ Mr. Ron DaviesNone. Cardiff City Council was abolished on 31 March 1996.