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00:00A major £1.1 billion extension of the British Library is set to begin in 2026, with plans
00:11to transform the iconic site over the following years.
00:14The development, which received approval from Camden Council in July 2024, is expected to
00:19be completed by 2032.
00:22The project will add around 100,000 square feet of additional space in the library.
00:28The features will include a full-height foyer, extra public entrances and a dedicated commercial
00:34area.
00:35The extension will be built on the land of the north of the existing building, which is already
00:40owned by the library.
00:42According to the British Library, the upgrade will deliver modern, state-of-the-art spaces
00:47aimed at expanding access and improving the visitor experience.
00:52The investment is being made in partnership with SMBL, a company fully owned by Japanese
00:59developer Mitsui Fudusan, which together with the British Library confirmed in March that
01:04£1.1 billion would be committed to the project.
01:09Culture, Science and Technology Minister Sir Chris Bryant described the extension as an
01:14ambitious transformation and said it would help showcase the nation's history and cultural
01:19heritage.
01:22The British Library chief executive Rebecca Lawrence said the redevelopment would open
01:27up the site in new ways and provide cutting-edge facilities for future generations to enjoy
01:33the British Library.
01:35That's it on the extension, stay here on London TV for more news from across the capital.