12 January 2012

Detailed Inspection begins on Beehive Copper Roof

In January 2012 an inspection will be undertaken to identify the cause and extent of leaks in the copper roof of the Beehive. This work was identified in the Parliamentary Service’s Statement of Intent 2011 – 2014 and has Treasury approval for this exploratory work.

The Beehive houses government ministers with the Prime Minister's office on the ninth floor and the Cabinet room on the tenth, or top floor. “We do know that the roof is leaking in places, letting water inside and that the copper gutters are also leaking. We can see various windows that have corroded, and will require replacement. Unresolved leaks will cause damage which if left, would require extensive repair,” says Geoff Thorn, General Manager of the Parliamentary Service.

Essentially this investigative work entails the erection of scaffolding on levels, nine and ten of the Beehive to enable safe access for an inspection of the copper roof, windows and gutters on level ten. A report will then be prepared on the condition of this historic building’s roof along with recommendations for necessary repairs and/or replacement.

Warren and Mahoney Architectural Practice has been appointed to lead this work for the Parliamentary Service.

The work is anticipated to take around eight weeks beginning the week 16 January. It has been scheduled for this time to minimise disruption to ministers and staff working in the Beehive.

ENDS

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