Progress on work at Sessions House meant that crews could be seen removing scaffolding this week.

A spokesman for the Ministry of Public Works said yesterday: “The renovations of the House of Assembly are progressing as planned.

“As the exterior work — which includes painting — is completed, the scaffolding will be removed as necessary.

“Further updates will be provided in the coming months.”

Dennis Lister, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, said last August that renovations of the building were expected to be completed in time for the 400th anniversary of Parliament, which was earlier this month.

The Government said last September that the work would include the replacement of windows as well as health and safety upgrades.

It meant that both the House of Assembly and the Senate met in a temporary location at Veritas Place on Court Street for legislative sessions during the past year.

A brochure published on the Bermuda Parliament website said that Sessions House had been the seat of Parliament since 1826.

Mr Lister said last month that renovations would see the legislature serve the island and its people with modern services and “the best tools” — including the ability to televise sittings.

He added: “That has been a goal and objective through the years. We’re pleased to see that there is a change and that the building is being renovated.

“Bermuda has the oldest continuing Parliament in the Westminster system — outside of Britain.

“We have such an enviable history and a stability that began 400 years ago.”