Cape Town, South Africa – the Secretary to Parliament (STP), Mr. Xolile George, reports significant progress in the restoration and upgrade of Parliament’s infrastructure, which was damaged by a fire in 2022. This development occurs amidst challenges of inadequate space and facilities that were not fully compliant with the National Building Regulations (NBR).

According to Parliament of South Africa, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure handed over the project to Parliament in March 2023, prompting swift action due to the urgent need for Members of Parliament’s offices. The reconfiguration of the 4th and 5th floors in the 90 Plein Street building resulted in the completion of 155 new offices in just seven weeks, including meeting rooms, pause areas with kitchenettes, reception areas, and storerooms. The project also added 20 interpretation booths and two sign language studios, essential for Parliament’s core operations.

Currently, efforts are underway to secure additional floors in the 90 Plein Street building for more offices and committee rooms. This expansion aims to optimize space and accommodate the necessary upgrades to the Old Assembly and National Assembly buildings. The design teams are also tasked with introducing innovative and green concepts into the buildings’ architecture.

The removal of approximately 750 m3 of rubble from the Old and New Assembly buildings marked a significant step in the restoration process. Recovered movable assets from 382 offices were evaluated for retention, auction, or donation, with special attention given to preserving heritage artifacts and historically significant books.

A temporary roof has been installed on the Old Assembly building to protect its interior and facilitate uninterrupted construction work. The next phase includes repairs and upgrades to the Old Assembly and the National Assembly buildings, currently in the concept and viability stage. The design phase involves obtaining necessary permits while ensuring compliance with the National Heritage Resources Act and preserving the buildings’ heritage value.

Mr. George highlighted the inclusive approach to infrastructure delivery, aiming to reflect South Africa’s cultural diversity in the designs. He also acknowledged the support from the City of Cape Town, including the participation of city engineers in Parliament’s Gateway Review Panel.

Regarding the Old Assembly building, the second floor suffered major structural damage. The preferred design concept involves like-for-like repairs to maintain its heritage value, with necessary upgrades for compliance and support of Parliament’s core functions. For the National Assembly, the most viable option involves retaining the building’s facade while introducing modern design and green building concepts.

Further sub-projects include the determination of safe access routes, asset verification, and impairment calculations, completed on 16 May 2023. A 3D scan of the buildings has facilitated real-time design and data sharing among professional teams.

Stakeholder consultations and a gateway review process for the design concepts are ongoing, with final permit approvals and budget approvals expected from various stakeholders, including the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA). The design phase is scheduled for completion by February 2024, with the entire project targeted for completion by 28 November 2025. The Old Assembly project team is also exploring the feasibility of sectional completion for early use of parts of the building.