National Assembly for Wales

Following a conclusive referendum in 1987, the National Assembly for Wales was created, with long-sought-after powers of home rule. The decision to locate the new Assembly on the present site in Cardiff Bay was taken by Ron Davies as Secretary of State in April 1998. An international design competition was held with a brief setting out a functional specification for the building, and expressing a clear desire for an open and democratic building, appropriate for the twenty-first century. The competition jury considered designs from a short list of six architects, and recommended a concept design from RRP. The jury described the new design as a symbol of Wales looking with confidence to its future, and as a new form of democracy of which the whole of Wales could be proud.

The specifics of the brief included the stipulation that the building be an exemplar for access, that sustainable strategies and renewable energy systems be implemented throughout, that the building have a minimum 100 year life span, and that, wherever possible, Welsh materials be used. Other elements included a 610 square metre (6,566 sq ft) debating chamber for 60 to 80 members, three committee rooms, offices, a media briefing room, tea room, members’ lounge, public galleries, and a main hall to act as reception, orientation and exhibition space. At RRP’s suggestion, the site, which is located directly facing Cardiff Bay, was expanded to take advantage of the opportunity to complete the ‘jigsaw’ of development in the immediate vicinity and to create an important new public space for the city.