North East England business and suppliers could play their part in restoring the Palace of Westminster.

Over 25 local businesses from across the North East, from Newcastle to Middlesbrough attended a meeting with the team delivering Parliament's restoration in Darlington last week. 

Leading North East experts in everything from manufacturing to architecture, lift design to upholstery, engineering and archaeology were all in attendance at the event to share their skills and experience.

Businesses and suppliers from the region discussed delivering Parliament’s restoration programme and how the complex work can support jobs and opportunities across the region.

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Already, small and medium-sized businesses are benefitting from the work to restore the Palace of Westminster. Last year, seven contracts worth £4m for Palace of Westminster building investigations were awarded to suppliers. 

Five out of seven contract winners were classed as small or medium enterprises (SME). There are already dozens of companies involved in the restoration effort and supporting jobs and apprenticeships.

Andy Haynes, Commercial Director at the Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Delivery Authority, said:

"It was fantastic to be in Tees Valley and discuss with local business leaders how they could support the restoration of the Palace of Westminster in the future.

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"Parliament represents every individual and region around the country, so it's really important that we make the most of the skills here in the North East, as we involve businesses across the whole of the UK in restoring the historic Palace of Westminster."

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen was pleased that "brilliant local businesses" were being factored into plans. 

“Our businesses contain a wealth of expertise that would make them ideally placed to help drive forward this restoration. Working on such a prestigious project will highlight our companies to the UK and further put us on the map.”

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Both Houses of Parliament are committed to preserving the Palace for future generations. 

In July 2022 Members of both Houses agreed there needs to be a more aligned and integrated approach to future restoration, prioritising safety critical work before the formal go-ahead and options for the overall restoration are confirmed.

The volume and future scope of the main restoration works are not yet certain until approval is given by Members of both Houses to costed proposals, in advance of this Members will be asked to vote on a strategic case by the end of 2023.