Long-running work to repair Stormont roof moving into second phase
The Assembly Commission said the work was being completed as quickly as possible.
Long-running work to repair the roof of the home of the Northern Ireland Assembly is moving into a second phase, MLAs have heard.
Scaffolding has been erected at sections of Parliament Buildings in the Stormont Estate since 2024 following leaks from the roof of the historic building which was built between 1928 and 1932.
During questions for the Assembly Commission on Tuesday, MLAs were given an update on the work.
Commission member Nuala McAllister said the remedial works are addressing defects identified in the roof of Parliament Buildings and will protect the long-term integrity of the Grade A listed property.
She said the work has been structured into two phases, the first of which is almost complete.
“Phase one focuses on priority health and safety works, including repairs to the rear parapet and internal courtyards, where scaffolding is currently in place,” she told MLAs.
“A contractor has been appointed, and works are under way, with completion expected by the end of August 2026.
“Phase two will address wider water ingress issues across the remainder of the roof.
“This phase will include detailed investigations, the development of options, and the appointment of an integrated consultancy team to inform the full scope of work.”
Ms McAllister said those investigations will determine what works need to be complete to address remaining issues.
“The Assembly Commission recognises that this issue has been a long and protracted issue, and the extent of the deterioration in courtyards one, two and three is less significant, thankfully, than initially anticipated,” she said.
“However, early investigations have identified some additional complexities, including localised stone deterioration and issues in courtyard eight, and these are being carefully managed, and more necessary interim works may be brought forward to address any emerging risks.”
She added: “Again, the Assembly Commission just want to highlight that we recognise that this issue is long-standing and ongoing, but we are processing it and ensuring the works can be done as quickly as possible.”