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Pow - Westminster Hall
Leadwork
Few spaces in Britain carry the weight of history as powerfully as Westminster Hall. The oldest surviving building on the Parliamentary Estate, it had stood at the centre of national life since the 11th century, witness to coronation feasts, trials, ceremonies, and moments of profound change. Built in 1097 under William II of England and completed just two years later, it was at the time the largest hall in England, and likely in Europe, stretching the length of nearly four cricket pitches laid end to end.
Above it rose the fleche, a slender architectural crown that punctuated the skyline, a feature both decorative and functional, and vulnerable to the relentless effects of weather.
Client
Strategic Estates
Dates
December 2017
—
July 2020
Location
Westminster
Grade listing
Grade I
Fabric
Lead
Architects
Donald Insall Architects
Recording Before Removal
DBR Leadwork was commissioned to undertake conservation works to the fleche’s lead covering, beginning with a meticulous process of recording. Every element of the existing sand-cast lead was documented before removal, ensuring that nothing of historical significance would be lost or misinterpreted.
The lead coverings were then carefully dismantled, revealing the structure beneath. Where the substrate had deteriorated, repairs were carried out to restore its integrity before any new material was introduced.
Recasting the Past for the Future
Rather than discarding the historic material, the salvaged lead was recast and reused, a process that honoured both sustainability and authenticity. The renewed lead was installed to the fleche with refined detailing designed to improve rainwater disposal and long-term performance.
Decorative cast crockets, previously removed with care, were catalogued, cleaned, and reinstated in their original positions. Their return restored the fleche’s intricate silhouette, ensuring that craftsmanship as well as structure was preserved.
Working Under the Strictest Safeguards
One of the most demanding aspects of the project was the requirement for in situ welding. On the Parliamentary Estate, such work could only proceed under rigorous fire safety controls and hot works permitting procedures. Every operation was closely managed to eliminate risk while maintaining the quality required for a structure of national importance.
The restored fleche now stands secure above Westminster Hall’s vast timber roof, its renewed leadwork faithful to the original. Though little changed in appearance, it is strengthened and refined, ensuring this historic hall endures, with DBR Leadwork contributing to its long-term stewardship.
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