Big Ben ©apdk
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Rumors about the architectural stability of the famous UK parliament building and it’s iconic tower have been making the rounds this week.
The 96-meter tall clock tower, which houses the bell nicknamed Big Ben, leans about 46 cm to the left of its peak. In response to concerns, a spokesman for the House of Commons commission, which is responsible for the upkeep of parliamentary estate, insists that the tilt is not a big deal and that the lean had “been there for years,” and could have existed since its construction in 1859.
A construction expert who worked on the leaning tower of Pisa in Italy and a controversial multi-story parking garage under the houses of parliament, also said there was nothing to worry about, and believes it would take 10,000 years before the tower tilted enough to cause concern.
On top of the tilt drama, media is reporting that the 19th century neo-Gothic parliamentary building is slowly slipping into the River Thames.
The parliamentary building, which houses the upper and lower chambers as well as the offices of some lawmakers, was built after its medieval predecessor was destroyed in fire. The historical building has has required constant, expensive repairs and maintenance. During the current financial squeeze there are rumors that the property might be sold to Russian or Chinese developers to ease the economic burden of maintaing the estate.
You can read more at Reuters