§ Mr. Laurence RobertsonTo ask the Chairman of the Accommodation and Works Committee if he will make a statement on the use of bronze in the New Parliamentary Building. [58782]
§ Sir Sydney ChapmanThe initial brief for the building was set out in the Second Report from the Select Committee on House of Commons (Services), Session 1990–91 (HC551). The Committee recommended a building of
durable, high-quality materials which are in keeping with the area and will weather well".In his subsequent report to the House, the architect, Sir Michael Hopkins, advised that the materials which had been selected were consistent with the requirements of a high-quality building with a minimum life span of 120 years. The major components of the building, including the main structural elements, would be designed to last for the life of the building.
Aluminium bronze was selected for the roof for both its durability and good structural properties. The use of bronze has been continued down the elevations as a facing for the duct panels and the frames to the windows.
The first of the fenestration and duct units will be installed before Christmas with work on the roof starting early in the New Year. Hon. Members will have then the opportunity to see the contribution the use of bronze has made to the high quality of the design of the building as well as to achieving the functional requirements.