(© Patrick Tourneboeuf)

The Paris Opera has announced a three-year extension to the renovation of the historic Palais Garnier due to the discovery of lead contamination in its structure.

The project aims to modernize the stage rigging (below and above the stage) in terms of both the stage equipment and the building itself. Paris Opera’s General Director Alexander Neef told Agence France-Presse, “As in many other historical monuments, the presence of lead at the Palais Garnier is known and is subject to regular monitoring. It was already planned to address this in the initial project. What changes the situation is that we are now facing stricter regulations and a demand from prevention and control bodies to completely remove the lead from the stage rigging during the renovation work.”

Initially the renovation was to take place between 2027 and 2029, however, the need for deep decontamination could postpone the reopening up to 2032. The delay at the Palais Garnier directly impacts the city’s tourism as well as the schedules of other cultural venues, such as Opéra Bastille. This venue’s renovation plans are now pushed back as well.

The comprehensive renovation project has an estimated cost of €450 million, according to the French Ministry of Culture. The French state will finance a quarter of this amount.

Neef added, “It’s a decision we stand by, a decision taken out of responsibility, a decision made to ensure the long-term future of our asset. We have taken this step today in order to avoid having to launch other major works in a few years’ time.”

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