Swiss cottage is a National Monument in State Ownership under National Monument number 647.
The Office of Public Works is committed to providing safe workplaces for its staff at all times and is already aware of the concerns raised by staff in relation to air quality at the Reception area of the Swiss Cottage.
The area in the basement remains functional with no deterioration of fabric or environmental quality. There continues to be ongoing monitoring of the site in regards to air quality in the basement area. There are no immediate plans to introduce additional mechanical ventilation to the structure which forms the National Monument. This would be a highly invasive and obtrusive action which would require ministerial consent and cause significant alterations to the fabric of the building and its presentation. The basement area of Swiss Cottage will be used as a reception area only and staff can alternate between working on the reception area and giving guided tours therefore minimising the period of time spent in the basement.
To further reduce the amount of time being spend by staff in the basement area, I am pleased to advise that a mobile welfare unit is in situ for Guide staff to use as their welfare accommodation. This mobile unit has a kitchenette area and toilet facilities. This alternative guide facility is located at the base of the historic steps.
