Public paid £30,000 to rehome first minister during Bute House repairs

The Scottish Government paid close to £30,000 renting a temporary apartment for the first minister and his family for the five-month period during which his official residence was being refurbished.

Bute House, which is situated on Charlotte Square in Edinburgh, had to close just weeks after Humza Yousaf succeeded Nicola Sturgeon as first minister last year so essential repair work could be completed.

Between June and October, Yousaf and his family were housed in a three-bedroom flat in the capital, with the total cost of the rental coming in at £29,546. Of that, £19,813 was spent on rent while the remainder went on fees.

“Alternative accommodation arrangements were put in place for the first minister,” the government said.

“A number of properties were reviewed and the one selected was the best fit in terms of cost, security and size.”

The total cost of the repair project, which included roof repairs and window refurbishment as well as the temporary accommodation, was £856,307.59.

Of that, just over £200,000 was spent on ensuring the building complies with internal fire safety regulations, almost £600,000 on roof, stonework and window repairs, and £30,365 protecting artwork and other objects.

“While the repair works were undertaken, in line with handling and care advice provided by Historic Environment Scotland and National Galleries of Scotland, all national collection artworks were removed from the building and placed into storage,” the government said.

“In addition, chandeliers in the drawing, cabinet and dining rooms were covered in specialist material to protect them from dust or debris, and a plywood cover was built around the drawing room fireplace and rococo mirror.

“Furniture in the drawing room, dining room and cabinet room was removed to a St Andrew’s House storage area for the duration of the works.”

Bute House, which is A-listed, is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and leased to the Scottish Government. The terms of the lease state that the government is responsible for all repairs and maintenance costs.

A survey carried out in 2021 identified that repairs were required to the building’s roof and stonework. The government said that “to ensure best value for money” it was decided to include window maintenance and internal fire safety work in the same programme of works.

In addition to being the first minister’s official residence, the building, which was previously used as the official residence for the Secretary of State for Scotland, is also used for Cabinet meetings, official engagements, receptions and meetings.