Steel scaffolding will soon cover Peace Tower on Parliament Hill

A conceptional rendering shows what the Peace Tower will look like once a steel frame is erected around the 92-metre tower. (Senate of Canada/Instagram)

The iconic Ottawa view of the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill will look different starting next year, as steel scaffolding is constructed around the tower to support exterior construction work.

As part of the Centre Block rehabilitation project, a 92-metre-tall steel frame tower will be built so construction crews can complete masonry and structural work on the nearly 100-year-old structure.

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The Senate of Canada shared a conceptual rendering of what the steel frame will look like on social media over the weekend.

“Next year, a frame made from 100 per cent Canadian steel will rise around the 92-metre Peace Tower,” officials said.

“It will give crews safe access to repair the stonework, replace windows and restore the tower’s intricate sculptures.”

According to Public Services and Procurement Canada, the steel frame will enable the start of masonry repairs, window replacements and structural improvements to the Peace Tower.

“Drill rigs will be placed at the top of the Peace Tower to meticulously drill and install structural posts from the top to the bottom to strengthen the tower,” Public Services and Procurement Canada said.

“Tarping of the front façade will follow once the scaffolding is installed. Visitors to Parliament will continue to enjoy the Peace Tower flag, which will remain visible throughout construction.”

The installation of the steel frame around the Peace Tower is expected to begin in the spring.

The Peace Tower houses a 53-bell carillon.

The work on the Peace Tower is part of the renovations to the nearly 100-year-old Centre Block. The building closed for renovations in late 2018 and is expected to open in approximately 2031.

With files from The Canadian Press