British Library Extension
The British Library and its partner SMBL (wholly owned by Mitsui Fudosan UK), are delivering a £1.1 billion landmark development on land north of the existing Library, representing a major investment in Camden, London and the UK. Funded by Mitsui Fudosan, with Stanhope as development manager and Mace as construction manager, the scheme will provide an additional 100,000 sq ft for the British Library, creating a multi-purpose extension with new galleries, learning and business spaces to expand its support for researchers, start-ups and learners of all ages. The British Library is seeking the support of visionary philanthropists and partners to fit out these incredible new spaces.
The scheme also includes 600,000 sq ft of commercial space for organisations looking to make their base in London’s Knowledge Quarter to help create a thriving ecosystem for science and innovation in the UK.
Work on site commences in 2026 and the project is due to be completed in 2032.
The benefits at a glance
100,000 sq ft new publicly accessible library spaces
10,000 sq ft new affordable workspace
New community garden to be co-designed with and managed by the community
£23 million contribution towards the delivery of new affordable homes in Somers Town
Local employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities
Dedicated Somers Town Community Engagement Manager (helping create education and employment opportunities, and support environmental projects in Somers Town)
New public entrances, including access from Somers Town, opening up the site through new routes, a new public access foyer and contributions to pedestrian and cycling improvements
How the British Library is transforming
Find out more about how and why the British Library is opening up its St Pancras site and how you can support this transformation.
Latest construction news:
Construction Management Plan
The purpose of a Construction Management Plan (CMP) is to help developers to minimise construction impacts and relates to all construction activity both on and off site that impacts on the wider environment.
Development Partners
Delivery Partners
