Figures contained in the estimates of expenditure show that $50 million in capital funds have been given to the Urban Development Corporation for the construction of new houses of parliament.

The allocation is to cover the development of design and construction documents; preparation of an architectural plan; the conducting of an architectural design competition, and the establishment of a construction contract.

Acquiring land

Prime Minister Bruce Golding in September said the Government would acquire parcels of land in proximity to Gordon House, to construct the new building.

"This one is 48 years old. It's inadequacies are unanimously acknowledged. The need for a new parliament (building) has not been an issue that is in dispute," Golding said in 2007.

A joint select committee of parliament has been set up to deliberate and come up with plans for the new building.

In 2003, a committee chaired by Oliver Clarke made recommendations for the construction of a new parliament building, citing woefully inadequate facilities to carry out the nation's business.

The new houses of parliament are to be situated on 12 acres of land. The existing George William Gordon House is to be used as a museum. There are also plans to have the building become a part of a modern legislative square.