The “mega embassy” from China in London that is raising eyebrows among the neighbors
Just a stone’s throw from Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, the unassuming Cartwright Street could soon become the direct neighbor of the largest Chinese diplomatic complex in Europe. Beijing is planning to transform the historic Royal Mint Court, former home of the British coin factory, into a “super embassy” that would occupy the entire plot and include residences for its staff.
The plan, which would involve an investment of several hundred million dollars, comes at a time of tension between the UK and China. London has welcomed thousands of Hong Kong citizens following measures imposed by Beijing in recent years, and the proposal has reignited fears of surveillance and harassment against dissidents.
#### Restrictions, censorship, and a pending decision
China acquired Royal Mint Court in 2018 for around $312 million. Their initial request to convert it into an embassy was rejected in 2022 for security reasons. The project was reactivated in 2024, following a change in government in the UK, with hopes of a more favorable stance.
The final decision lies with , the Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of Housing, who must decide by September 9th. Meanwhile, she has demanded Beijing to explain why parts of the submitted plans for the diplomatic compound were censored. The deadline for a response is August 20th.
For the residents, the issue is not just geopolitical. Around 300 people live just meters from the site, many in buildings whose balconies would directly overlook the diplomatic complex. Mark Nygate, treasurer of the neighborhood association, fears that the proximity could allow China to exert excessive control over the community.
“The parking lot is separated by a simple wooden fence,” he explains. “If they take photos or believe someone is spying, they could act under their rights as landowners.” The Metropolitan Police also warns that any protest in front of the embassy could disrupt traffic and affect nearby tourist areas.
#### Espionage, human rights, and unsettling precedents
Pro-democracy organizations and activists against repression in Hong Kong see the future headquarters as a risk to the security of dissidents in the UK. They fear incidents like the one in Manchester in 2022, when a Hong Kong protester was beaten after being dragged into the Chinese consulate.
Critics of the project recall international accusations against Beijing for operating covert “police stations” abroad to monitor their citizens and force them to return. In this context, they believe that a facility of such magnitude meters away from a London landmark is a strategic threat.
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