Modifications to Fire Doors – London

Within the Grade I listed Palace of Westminster, the proposed ‘Line of route’ fire escape route (via the West Entrance Lobby) is adjacent to Royal Staircase. The area is a significant element within the Palace of Westminster, and contains historic stonework and joinery dating from the Barry phase of construction. The passageway itself is composed of vaulted stone and has restrained detail, containing a series of ornate partially glazed doors and an ornate external ‘gate’ style doors. In order to improve fire escape provision from the Royal Staircase area, the existing passageway and doors require modification and conservation works. All the doors are showing signs of wear and the external gates have dropped preventing easy operation. The majority of works relate to the timber doors, including renovation and repairs. The project, however, also includes electrical works relating to the installation of an electronic dead bolt on the external doors. The proposed works are scheduled to be carried out during the summer recess in 2014. Due to the listed status of the building, great care must be made to ensure installations are carefully executed and cause no damage the historic fabric.