Scaffolding remains in place at Stormont parliament buildings to address a leaking roof. The structure has stood since summer 2024 at a total cost of £407,000. Initial investigative work cost £74,000.

Assembly Commission representative Trevor Clarke explained that officials opted to keep the scaffolding up to avoid repeated disruptions to proceedings. Removing and reinstalling it would have caused further interruptions to committees and business. Erection in 2024 already disrupted operations with noise that forced windows shut during hot weather.

Ulster Unionist MLA Alan Chambers noted rain leaking through the roof. Officials pay a monthly hire charge that covers stability checks. He accepted the commission's approach as the best value amid challenges.

Roof repairs will proceed in two phases. Tenders for the first phase closed in January. Contracts were due for signing by late March, with work projected to last six months.

A prior legal dispute over 2015 repairs ended last year. The Assembly Commission aims to progress beyond it.

No update has been received from the Assembly on current scaffolding or repair status.