The UK government has postponed its final ruling on a proposed new, consolidated embassy complex for China in London until January 20th. This new timeline coincides with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s anticipated diplomatic visit to Beijing early next year.
The decision, which represents the third such delay, will determine the fate of plans to construct what would be China’s largest global diplomatic mission at the Royal Mint Court site near Tower Bridge. The project aims to merge seven separate Chinese diplomatic properties across London into a single 20,000-square-meter facility.
According to official statements, key government departments have completed their security assessments. The Home Office and Foreign Office have indicated no outstanding national security objections to the project. A government spokesperson noted that consolidating diplomatic operations into one location offers distinct security benefits.
In a recent policy address, Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the need for a consistent and realistic approach to UK-China relations, moving away from what he described as past cycles of extreme optimism and deep frost. He framed engagement with China as a necessity, given its significant global influence in technology, trade, and governance.
However, the proposal has faced sustained local opposition. Campaigners and residents have held protests near the site, citing concerns over human rights issues. Despite this, ministerial correspondence indicates that authorities have worked to ensure all security considerations are addressed, while acknowledging the mutual importance of functional diplomatic premises between nations.
Chinese officials have expressed frustration with the repeated delays, urging a swift approval to prevent damage to bilateral trust and cooperation. The Chinese government purchased the Royal Mint Court site in 2018, but initial planning permission was refused by local authorities in 2022. The current national government subsequently assumed responsibility for the final decision.
The planning verdict is now expected shortly before the Prime Minister’s planned trip, which would be the first visit by a UK leader to Beijing in several years.