on Friday.

The move follows damning criticism of the Supreme Court by the Chief Justice the Hon. Sir James Astwood.

Sir James blasted the building as "totally inadequate'' for judges.

The building includes the House of Assembly, two supreme courts, and several offices.

Now architects have drawn up plans for a complete revamp, and make the place more roomy.

On Friday they were presented to the House of Assembly.

The proposals include shutting in the inner courtyard, and moving the law library there.

The current library would be turned into Supreme Court No. 2.

Also proposed is a lift along the eastern tower, and a lounge on the upper level, equipped with a speaker system to allow MPs to follow debates.

And it is planned to put the Parliamentary Library, Premier's Office, and the Members' Tea Room on the northern side of the building.

The office area used by Department of Legislature staff would be expanded to include the Premier's former study.

In addition, a complete overhaul of the plumbing, electrical and air-conditioning systems is proposed.

The plans were drawn up after pressure from the House and Grounds Committee, and Architecture Design and Construction Division of the Ministry of Works and Engineering.

MPs were told the House and Grounds Committee had met on December 10, 1991 to consider improvements to the Sessions House.

Chairman the Hon. Ernest DeCouto, reading a report of the committee, said the building had long been viewed "grossly inadequate''.

The Premier's current office, for instance, was "totally inadequate for the exacting responsibilities'' of his job.

He added: "In the interests of health, safety and practical convenience, it is advisable to completely overhaul and modernise the plumbing, electrical and air-conditioning system.'' Mr. DeCouto said the House and Grounds Committee was in full agreement changes were long overdue.

It supports the proposed plans to restructure and renovate the building, he added.

Mr. DeCouto said he was confident the proposals would be put into place.

But it was up to the Finance Ministry to decide when the scheme could be budgeted for.

It was probable the project would be broken down into phases.