Client
Wates Construction
Sector
Operational Government facility and UNESCO World Heritage Site
Location
Palace of Westminster, London
Contract Value
£3,000,000+
Horizon Environmental Ltd was appointed by Wates Construction to deliver extensive asbestos removal works within the Palace of Westminster – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic and security-sensitive buildings in the United Kingdom. The project formed part of a major life-safety upgrade to replace fire alarm and emergency systems throughout the Parliamentary estate. Given the site’s high profile, stringent access protocols, and limited working windows, Horizon provided flexible resources to align with Wates’ program during parliamentary recesses, maintaining 24/7 readiness and rapid mobilisation capabilities.
The project involved both licensed and non-licensed asbestos removal, including asbestos insulation board (AIB), thermal insulation residues, and sprayed coatings. Works were undertaken under fully controlled conditions within bespoke enclosures, each designed for minimal disruption to surrounding chambers and offices.
Key deliverables included:
Horizon implemented a robust management system aligned with ISO 45001, the Control of Asbestos Regulations, and Parliamentary estate protocols. Measures included negative-pressure units with HEPA filtration, continuous air monitoring, DCUs, strict permit-to-work systems, and environmental protection to safeguard historic finishes. Zero accidents or non-conformances were recorded.
Restricted access, confined basement areas, and the need to protect heritage features required meticulous planning and coordination. Mitigation included phased logistics, two-way communication systems, and non-invasive enclosure design approved by conservation officers.
All works were completed to program and budget, achieving full HSE clearance and zero disruption to Parliamentary activity. Horizon was retained for further phases of the refurbishment program.
