Edinburgh Photo Library
- New Parliament Building
A design competition was held to select the architect for the new Scottish Parliament building on a site (formerly a brewery) across the road from the Palace of holyroodhouse. Enric Miralles from Spain, working in conjunction with RMJM of Edinburgh was appointed. A feature of the Miralles design was the shape of upturned boats on the roof of the building. At the insistence of Historic Scotland, Queensberry House has been retained as part of the development. This was originally built as a mansion house in 1651 and was later owned by Lord Queensberry.
Initial, unrealistic cost estimates have escalated and the budget now stands at just under £200 million; but this is very likely to be exceeded. Current estimates are that construction will be completed by the end of 2002, although it may not be fully occupied until early 2003. It would be embarrassing if the building was not fully operational by the time of the next election for Scottish Members of Parliament - in May 2003.
See also Parliament Buildings for more information and illustrations.
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