Senedd Expansion Costs Surge as MSs Request Individual Desks
The ever-increasing costs of expanding the Senedd’s debating chamber have come to light as Members of the Senedd (MSs) voice their demands for furniture. This issue has sparked a divide among members, particularly regarding the need for individual desks. While many historic national parliaments around the world still feature politicians seated closely together on benches, the Senedd in Cardiff Bay has taken a different stance.
With plans to grow from 60 to 96 members after the 2026 election, the Senedd’s chamber must be expanded to accommodate the larger institution. The initial cost estimates have risen due to MSs insisting on having their own desks. Modern debating chambers in institutions like the European Parliament and Scotland’s Holyrood provide individual space for each politician, complete with desks and screens. However, the current Senedd building, designed by Richard Rogers in 2007, was not originally intended to cater for 96 members, leading to discussions on the most cost-effective approach to expansion.
Lord Rogers had foreseen the potential expansion of the Senedd, but only up to 80 members. The Siambr, the debating chamber of the £70m building, was initially constructed with temporary panels that could accommodate an additional row of 20 desks made of Welsh oak. However, to create space for 36 more politicians, using benches instead of desks would have been a simpler solution. Nonetheless, during a recent finance committee meeting, Senedd Commissioner Hefin David revealed that members opposed this idea.
Members expressed a preference for a more contemporary design that would grant each of them a dedicated desk, viewing it as essential for better functionality and public scrutiny. Consequently, the Senedd Commission has requested a 16% increase in its budget for 2025-26, totalling £84.3m, to manage what is deemed as the most significant change since the Welsh Parliament was established in 1999. The rising capital costs also stem from alterations to the adjacent Ty Hywel building, which primarily houses offices.
Conservative MS Laura Anne Jones highlighted concerns about the escalating costs of the Senedd expansion, prompting discussions on exploring more cost-effective options. However, Mr. David explained that the desired chamber layout, which includes individual desks for each member, has contributed to the increased capital expenditure. While reevaluating the feasibility of providing a minimalistic chamber setup without individual desks, Mr. David emphasized the importance of securing majority support across the chamber for any potential changes.
Although some question the surge in costs, the prevailing sentiment among MSs favours a purpose-built chamber that meets their requirements for functionality and modernity. As the Senedd prepares for significant structural changes, the ongoing deliberations aim to strike a balance between practicality and fiscal responsibility. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving discussion.