Written question asked by Lord Hylton (Crossbench) on Monday, 14 December 2020, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 30 December 2020. It was answered by Lord McFall of Alcluith (Non-affiliated) on Wednesday, 16 December 2020 on behalf of the Senior Deputy Speaker (HL).

Abingdon Green

Question: To ask the Senior Deputy Speaker why College Green has been closed; and when it is estimated that access will be permitted.

Answer: Abingdon Green was closed as a pedestrian thoroughfare on Monday 23 November while Westminster City Council complete essential security works at the perimeter at the Great College Street end, and will reopen on Friday 18 December. Access into and out of Abingdon Green will continue from the north (Jewel Tower) end. 　This is the first phase of essential security work being undertaken by Westminster City Council and subsequent closures might be expected later in 2021. These works are considered to be vital to protecting the security of Parliament and the surrounding area.

Secondary information