The Bunker is an office building on the Legislative Precinct, located on the east side of the Parliament Buildings. Despite its minimal profile, especially in contrast to the neighbouring Parliament Buildings, the Bunker houses many of the Legislative Assembly's administrative departments.
The Bunker was originally the site of a steam heating plant. It was built at the same time as the additions to the Parliament Buildings, around 1912. It was built partially below ground so that coal delivery trucks could unload their fuel directly into storage bunkers through ground-level chutes. The name "Bunker" was chosen by staff in reference to the building's initial function and design.
In the 1950s, the steam plant was moved across the street, and the building was converted to offices for provincial government employees. In 2005, the provincial employees relocated, and the buildings were again converted for use by Legislative Assembly staff.
The flat roof of the building stands in contrast to other buildings throughout the Legislative Precinct. However, this style of roof was chosen so that rainwater would collect on the building before evaporating, therefore cooling the Bunker naturally.
Did You Know?
The Bunker received its name following a contest among Legislative Assembly staff, which took place after the building's most recent renovations. Due to the unconventional nature of the name, the Bunker may at times also be called "612” or “614 Government," which refers to the street address of the building.
