Millennium Dome (Hansard, 27 October 1997)

§ Mr. Yeo
To ask the Minister without Portfolio how long the millennium dome will remain in place. [12597]

§ Mr. Mandelson
The millennium experience dome will have a greatly enhanced lifespan following the decision to use PTFE-coated glass fibre for the roof. The Government are now considering its potential long-term uses.

§ Mr. Yeo
To ask the Minister without Portfolio (1) what representations he has received about the use of PVC in the millennium dome; [12737]
(2) what additives the PVC coating of the millennium dome will contain. [12739]
(3) what discussions have taken place with the European Commission about the use of PVC for the coating of the millennium dome; [12598]
(4) what evidence he has evaluated on PVC as an environmentally suitable material for use in coating the millennium dome; [12596]
(5) what examination has been carried out of the restrictions on the use of PVC in other European countries; [12595]
(6) where the PVC coating of the millennium dome will be manufactured. [12738]

§ Mr. Mandelson
On 22 August 1997, the New Millennium Experience Company—NMEC—announced its decision to change the roofing material of the Millennium Experience dome from PVC—coated polyester to PTFE—coated glass fibre. The reason for the change was to give the dome a greatly enhanced lifespan, thereby assisting delivery of the Government's aim to ensure an enduring legacy from the millennium experience. The extra longevity and durability of the dome's roof covering as a result of the change to PTFE—coated glass fibre will increase significantly the legacy options which can be considered.
As part of its earlier considerations about PVC—coated polyester, the NMEC required a full environmental review, taking account of all available information in the UK, Europe and elsewhere, of the material's manufacture and disposal. The NMEC was satisfied that the material met all UK and EU environmental requirements. The company had no discussions with the European Commission but did receive representations about the use and safety of PCV from members of the public, from environmental groups including Greenpeace, and from companies involved in the chemical industry. PTFE—coated glass fibre, which is widely used across the world on large tensile roof structures, does not contain plasticising additives and also meets all UK and EU environmental requirements.