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British Library extension project to begin in 2026

Adrian Zorzut
Local Democracy Reporting Service
SMBL An artist's impression of the frontage for the extended space, featuring an illuminated vertical white sign for the British Library, beneath exposed beams and pillars at the entrance to the building. Wide open paved space with planting and seating can also be seen in the foregroundSMBL
The project is set to create about 100,000sq ft of new library space

A £1.1bn extension of the British Library is expected to start in 2026, it has been confirmed.

The project, which is set to create about 100,000sq ft (9,290sq m) of extra library space, includes a new full-height foyer, new public entrances and a commercial space.

The development was approved by Camden Council in July 2024 and is expected to be delivered by 2032, according to the library's website.

Culture, science and technology minister Sir Chris Bryant said the "ambitious transformation" would "showcase our national story and history".

SMBL An artist's impression of an atrium the inside of the newly extended space, including curved bench seating, black pillars and exposed orange beams, rows of bookcases on the ground level with intersecting suspended walkways and windows into floors above with signage and desksSMBL
As well as commercial space, the project will establish new public areas

In March, the British Library and its partner, SMBL, a company wholly owned by Mitsui Fudosan, confirmed £1.1bn would be spent on the development.

The works will take place on land north of the building, which is owned by the library.

Rebecca Lawrence, chief executive of the British Library, said the plans would open up the site with "state-of-the-art" spaces, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

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