The Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Programme (R&R) has been set up to deliver the essential works needed to save the Palace of Westminster, home of the Houses of Parliament, for future generations. The R&R programme has been engaging, informing and listening to the public as it develops plans for the restoration project.
What happened?
As part of the range of engagement being undertaken, the R&R Programme wanted to proactively reach out to those who may be less likely to participate, to make sure there is an understanding of the public’s views overall. In particular, the Programme wanted to hear from people who evidence shows are less likely to engage with the work of Parliament and formal politics – those from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds, unskilled workers, people in long term unemployment, and women. This has enabled the Programme to consider the views of people who may be less likely to currently visit or work in the building.
Involve partnered with 16 groups and organisations across the UK with existing networks to carry out a Community Conversation within these. Overall, 300 people took part in the workshops representing around 600 hours of deliberations and feedback which has been collated into a report which is available below and will inform the Restoration and Renewal of the Houses of Parliament.
“Thank you to Involve, the partner organisations, and most of all to the 300 participants who gave up their time and shared their ideas. This work is helping to ensure we hear from the broadest range of people across the United Kingdom as we plan for the restoration and renewal of their Houses of Parliament building.”
- James Tringham, Head of Engagement, Restoration and Renewal Programme