A traditional Japanese Shinto ceremony has marked the start of work on the British Library’s £1.1 billion extension in London.
The ceremony included rituals intended to show respect for the land and wish the project a safe delivery. It reflects the involvement of Japanese property company Mitsui Fudosan, which is funding the scheme through its UK subsidiary.
Library expansion with transport plans built in
The development will add around 100,000 sq ft of public space, including exhibition galleries, a learning centre, business support facilities and a larger foyer. A further 600,000 sq ft is planned for commercial science, data and life sciences organisations.
It will also include a major underground shaft and reserved space for a future Crossrail 2 station. The proposed railway would link Euston and St Pancras, with the development designed to accommodate a station beneath the site if the project proceeds.
An underground east-west pedestrian passage is also planned, creating a potential route between the future station platform and an expected ticket hall under Midland Road. The developer has committed £23 million towards affordable housing in the area.
Designed by RSHP with engineering by Arup, the extension is due to be completed in 2032. The Crossrail 2 space will remain unused until the railway is built.
Why it matters for Britain
The project will expand one of the country’s major cultural and learning institutions while adding space for science, data and life sciences businesses. Its transport-ready design could also make a future Crossrail 2 station easier to deliver, alongside £23 million for affordable housing.
