UK Parliament Faces Urgent Fire Risk as Restoration Plans Stall

Lawmakers warned that delays in refurbishing the Palace of Westminster could lead to catastrophic damage to the historic site.

The Palace of Westminster has experienced 45 fire incidents over the past decade, raising significant safety concerns.
Experts have described the restoration of the building as more complex than Notre Dame due to its size, age, and ongoing use as a workplace for thousands.
Three refurbishment options are under consideration: full decant, partial relocation, or rolling repairs, all requiring multibillion-pound investments.
Delays in decision-making have been attributed to political disagreements and concerns over the high costs, estimated between £7 billion and £22 billion.
A detailed proposal outlining costs, timelines, and risks for all options is expected to be presented to Parliament by the end of 2025.