China Abandons Plan for ‘Super Embassy’ Near London’s Tower Bridge

Sources familiar with the embassy project speculate that the Chinese government may consider developing the land into residential housing. The former site of the Royal Mint, purchased by China for over £255m in 2018, holds historical significance as it was the location where Britain’s coins were minted for over 200 years, beginning in 1809 and lasting until the early 1970s. The Mint itself was constructed on the remains of a 14th-century Cistercian abbey, with remnants of the abbey still visible in the basement. It is noteworthy that the site also served as a burial site during the Black Death.

The Chinese originally planned to construct a diplomatic outpost, which would be ten times larger than their current embassy in Marylebone, near Paddington. However, the local council rejected the proposal citing concerns that the site would jeopardize the safety of the surrounding community due to the potential for a terrorist attack. Additionally, some campaigners expressed fears that the site could be utilized as a “secret police station.”

During the planning meeting in December of the previous year, David Lake, the head of a local residents’ association near the Mint, voiced his concerns, stating, “I am concerned that an international incident may occur as the Chinese government possesses extensive and excessive powers.” The Chinese government, however, disregarded these objections, considering them to be inconsequential.

Following the initial rejection, a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy emphasized that “host countries have an international obligation to facilitate and support the construction of diplomatic mission premises.” The Chinese government urged the UK to fulfill its obligations in this regard.