Criticism Continues Over Holyrood Extension

Holyrood’s controversial new security extension has come under further fire from opposition campaigners.

They claim Lee Boyd’s new security facility for the Scottish Parliament building breaches the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) stand-off guidance.

With construction of the £6.5m extension having begun on 8 October, this new claim appears to be having little effect on the government’s decision to proceed as planned.

But opponents say the structure, which is set back 15 metres from the road, will "significantly increase" the risk of potential roadside blasts. RIBA guidance recommends a 30 metre stand-off area.


In a statement, the Campaign Group to Preserve the Architectural Integrity of the Scottish Parliament Buildings said the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body (SPCB) may be liable for any injuries, "should it be proven that the SPCB have ignored advice on the roadside blast zones."

Campaigner Ruairidh Moir told the Architects’ Journal: "We have underlined several times to members of the Parliament’s Corporate Body that they have either ignored official guidance or they have been ill-advised and therefore should stop this planned construction.

"Aside from the insensitive design and the absence of public consultation, these revelations are incredibly alarming. It is imperative that parliament halts this construction and allows a full and impartial independent review as to the consequences of placing the entrance directly into a blast stand-off zone."

The SPCB made the final decision to proceed with the extension of Enric Miralles’s 2005 Stirling Prize-winning design following a construction tender exercise.

A letter from the Executive said: "The SPCB takes seriously its duty to safeguard the well-being of the Members, staff and 400,000 visitors who come to Holyrood each year and we appreciate your patience while this work is carried out."

(IT)