Cape Town
The R2.27 billion reconstruction of Parliament’s National Assembly and Old Assembly buildings is progressing on schedule. The DBSA and parliamentary oversight committee say the project remains within budget, with practical completion expected by November 2026, delivering a modernised and resilient precinct.
The extensive R2.27 billion reconstruction of Parliament’s National Assembly and Old Assembly buildings is advancing steadily, with officials confirming that the project is on track to meet its November 2026 completion target. The rebuilding effort follows the devastating January 2022 fire, which rendered the National Assembly chamber unusable and forced Parliament into temporary venues.
The Development Bank of Southern Africa, which is managing the project, told parliamentary oversight members that all major phases are progressing according to schedule and that current contracts remain within budget. During a recent site inspection, the Joint Standing Committee on the Financial Management of Parliament expressed confidence in the visible progress and welcomed the project’s strong socio-economic impact, including job creation and opportunities for local contractors.
Reconstruction work covers the complete rebuilding of the National Assembly and Old Assembly buildings, alongside refurbishments at 90 Plein Street. Engineers and planners have designed the new structures to be more resilient, incorporating climate-responsive features, modern safety systems, and upgraded digital infrastructure to support a technologically advanced legislature.
Officials emphasised that “practical completion” is expected in November 2026, meaning the buildings will be fully functional even if some minor finishing items remain. Parliamentary leaders have reiterated their commitment to transparency, with regular updates to oversight bodies to ensure accountability in spending and timelines.
