West Block Image of Parliament Hill

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It's in the works

THE WEST BLOCK needs a lot of work, most of it scheduled to begin in 1999. In order to preserve this building for future generations, electrical, mechanical and sprinkler systems, as well as fire alarms, must be upgraded; fire exits added; and asbestos removed. In addition, the windows and copper roof need repair. Over the past two years, urgent masonry repairs have been completed; yet much more work remains to be done. It is also necessary to make this building fully accessible to persons with disabilities.

The shuffle or domino effect

During these major renovations, West Block occupants will be relocated to the Justice Building, to the west on Wellington Street. When work at the West Block is completed, the House of Commons and then the Senate will be housed, over a period of eight years, in a temporary Chamber constructed in the courtyard. Occupants of the Centre Block will be moved there during renovation of the Centre Block. Once the Centre Block renovation is completed, the temporary Chamber will be converted into committee rooms.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When was the West Block constructed?
    1859-1865
  • Who were the contractors?
    Jones, Haycock and Clarke
  • Who were the architects?
    Thomas Stent and Augustus Laver
  • What was the cost?
    $641,000
  • In what style was the West Block designed?
    Neo-Gothic
  • What are the names of and when were the extensions constructed?
    Mackenzie Wing and Tower -- 1874-1878
    Laurier Tower and Link -- 1906-1909
  • When was the latest renovation done, by whom and for how much?
    1961-1965
    Contractors -- Perini Ltd.
    Cost -- $5,088,000

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