Fed: Public access to Parly House roof to be stopped - source

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Fed: Public access to Parly House roof to be stopped - source

By Denis Peters

CANBERRA, Dec 26 AAP - A unique and treasured feature of Australian democracy, beingable to walk all over our federal politicians, could soon become a casualty of heightenedsecurity concerns.

Tourist access to the roof of Parliament House is expected to be banned under tightersecurity measures next month.

The Joint House Department confirmed a number of tighter security measures were underconsideration.

However, a House source said access to the grass, which forms the building's roof,would be prevented from next month.

An internal lift which previously took tourists to the roof was taken out of commissionafter September 11, 2001.

The roof lawn is a much-used and much-loved feature of Parliament House.

Last year it was covered with famous figures in the Peoplescape art project as partof the centenary of Federation celebrations.

The lawn is regularly used by visitors and sport teams.

Australian Protective Security personnel presence on the roof area is also expectedbe increased under the beefed-up security.

The source said other measures likely to be introduced next month were complete restrictionof vehicle access to the House forecourt and restricted access to part of the main publiccarpark.

AAP dep/mg/de

KEYWORD: TERROR HOUSE