The Stones of History: Centre Block

THE CENTRE BLOCK is only one of the magnificent Gothic Revival buildings gracing Parliament Hill, but it is probably the one most quickly recognized by Canadians coast to coast. Home to the House of Commons, the Senate and the Library of Parliament, the Centre Block is an integral part of our heritage and a symbol of Canada's highly regarded parliamentary system.

The south facade (the front of the Centre Block)

In September 1997, the scaffolding was removed from the front of the Centre Block.

Throughout the conservation and restoration work, four main problems were dealt with: cracked and damaged masonry walls and damaged mortar; the corroded, leaking copper roof; leaking and draughty windows; and inadequate foundation drainage that allowed water to collect near walls and seep into the basement.

Most of the problems were water-related. Over the years, rain has penetrated outer surfaces through cracks and broken stones. In winter, frequent freeze-thaw cycles exacerbated the damage, and airborne pollutants and salts were carried in with the rain and the snow, causing further deterioration.

Several chimneys and towers needed urgent repairs, as well, to prevent structural collapse. Until repair or reconstruction work started, these were temporarily braced with timbers and wire rope to ensure the safety of everyone who works on or visits the Hill.

Other facades

The other sides of the Centre Block also need work. Emergency repairs are being completed at this time to protect the safety of building occupants and visitors. Other necessary repairs will be forthcoming.

Centre Block interior renovations

Planning has now begun to address the interior rehabilitation of the Centre Block. This will be a major renovation and conservation project. Obsolete heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems will be replaced. New fire alarms, communication systems and building controls will be installed. This work will be implemented in two phases.

Between 2003 and 2010, the functions of the Centre Block will be moved to alternate facilities. For example, the House of Commons and then the Senate Chambers will be temporarily relocated in the West Block.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the cost of the Centre Block south facade project?
$18.8 million
How many linear metres of mortar joints make up the Centre Block South Facade?
23 km
How many stones can be found in the Centre Block South Facade?
50,000 stones (approximate)
How many windows are there in the Centre Block South Facade?
550
What is the area of copper roof on the south facade?
3,000 m2
How much scaffolding is there on the Centre Block South Facade?
2 km
What types of stone make up Centre Block South Facade?
Nepean, Ohio, Wallace sandstones

Centre Block Underground Services (CBUS)

During the summer of 1997, Public Works and Government Services Canada commenced the construction of a two-storey underground facility beside the Centre Block. The project, called Centre Block Underground Services (CBUS), is part of the long-term construction program for Parliament Hill. Upon completion, the facility will serve the Centre, West and East Blocks and will house new high voltage electrical transformers and emergency power generators, provide space for advanced computer and communications facilities, as well as provide much-needed storage space and delivery reception facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about CBUS

What is the cost of CBUS?
Estimated total project cost is $25.1 million.
How much rock was removed from the site?
Approximately 30,000 cubic metres.
How was the rock removed?
3,000 double axle dump trucks removed the rock.
What assurances are there that the heritage characteristics of all buildings are preserved?
The entire construction process is being closely monitored by the National Research Council and the Federal Heritage Building Review Office to protect the heritage characteristics of all buildings.