Badenoch Warns Parliament Renovation Becoming ‘Net Zero Dubai Hotel’

Published: 18 February 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online

Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party and opposition to the Labour government, has launched a blistering attack on plans to renovate the Palace of Westminster, warning that the project has spiralled far beyond essential repairs and risks transforming the historic seat of UK democracy into what she called a “net zero Dubai hotel.” Badenoch’s comments reflect deep concern among Tory MPs and tax-payer-funded watchdogs about escalating costs, extended timelines and a perceived overreach into extravagance.

The planned overhaul of the crumbling Houses of Parliament originally focused on urgent safety and structural work to address problems such as asbestos, decaying stonework and outdated infrastructure. However, fresh proposals — which could cost almost £40 billion and take up to 61 years to complete — have alarmed critics who argue that cosmetic and sustainability additions have ballooned the scope and price tag of the project. Badenoch described the proposals as “out of control” and branded them a wasteful use of public funds at a time of economic strain and widespread cuts in other public services.

The phrase “net zero Dubai hotel” was used by Badenoch to paint a vivid picture of what she sees as the unintended consequences of the renovation plans — in her view, taxpayers are being asked to foot the bill for upgrades and green features that go far beyond essential restoration, giving the parliamentary estate an almost luxury resort-style makeover under the banner of sustainability. She and her party are calling for the current proposals to be paused, “refocused” on core safety work, and subjected to stronger independent oversight and transparent reporting.

Labour government representatives have defended their approach, saying modernisation and energy-efficiency upgrades are crucial for preserving the iconic building for future generations and reducing long-term maintenance costs. They argue that investing in net-zero technologies — such as upgraded heating systems and energy-saving measures — will reduce carbon emissions and align the Parliament estate with broader UK climate goals, even if the short-term costs appear high. Supporters of the renovation say that without significant work now, the ongoing £1.5 million-per-week cost of basic maintenance will only grow.

Badenoch’s attack comes as part of a broader Conservative critique of Labour’s spending priorities, including energy and environment policy. As debates intensify over public finances, infrastructure spending and climate commitments, the dispute over Parliament’s refurbishment underscores deeper tensions in British political discourse over how — and how much — to invest in sustainability and heritage preservation.