Extension plans for British Library

The British Library is to get a 100,000 sq ft extension, as well as a new entrance and more exhibition space, with "new facilities" for the writers and academics who use the site.

The London Evening Standard has reported that "star architect” Richard Rogers is teaming up with the BL on the scheme, with developers Stanhope, which will also involve a “bespoke headquarters” to be created for data science research centre the Alan Turing Institute. There will also be new facilities for school trips. Further details of the proposal are to be revealed in the next 18 months.

The move is part of a wider development of a 2.8-acre site north of the library, which will offer commercial firms the chance to set up shop in what has been dubbed the Knowledge Quarter, because of the number of cultural and science organisations located nearby, including Google.

BL chief executive Roly Keating told the newspaper: “We are delighted to have secured such high-calibre partners to help realise our vision of the British Library’s London campus as a truly open, creative centre for knowledge. Sir Colin St John Wilson’s Grade I listed building was one of the great public projects of the last century, and this new partnership will help us to preserve and respect its unique character while creating much-needed extra space both for our growing public audiences and the dynamic research communities in London’s Knowledge Quarter.”

Culture secretary Karen Bradley’s comment was: “The British Library is one of our finest cultural institutions, housing an unparalleled collection of knowledge. This innovative project will increase access to the library’s first-class collections, providing new exhibition spaces, learning opportunities and facilities for visitors from Britain and around the world to enjoy. It is a significant commitment to digital research and data science, and I am pleased the expansion will provide a bespoke headquarters for the Alan Turing Institute.”