“As we approach King’s 200 year anniversary, the redevelopment of Bush House South West Wing will create a new centre for students firmly at the heart of the campus, acting as an anchor for many generations to come.
Professor Shitij Kapur, Vice-Chancellor & President of King's College London
15 January 2026
King's College London breaks ground at Bush House South West Wing
Senior colleagues from across King’s gathered with contractors Kier and external partners to mark the breaking ground of the Bush House South West Wing on the Strand campus.
Representing a major milestone in King’s campus transformation, and a significant investment in the university’s future, the redevelopment of Bush House South West Wing will create a welcoming, adaptive and innovative space which supports and enhances the student and staff experience.
Work began on the site late last year, and the breaking ground event was a moment to officially mark the construction taking place.
At the heart of the new building will be the ‘Agora’ (Ancient Greek for ‘gathering place’); a 160-seat, multi-purpose space designed for teaching in the round, enabling dialogue and collaboration.
The wider plans for the site also include:
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A new Student Centre will make it easier and accessible for students to access support services.
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Interdisciplinary academic space for 200 academic staff and associated postgraduate research student and support staff, with a thematic focus on Digital and AI and complemented by core AI technologists.
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A Showcase space, celebrating the achievements of our students and staff through exhibitions, talks and events.
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Flexible social and study areas for students to meet, relax and build a sense of connection and belonging.
The transformation of Bush House South-West Wing represents a fundamental shift in how we support our whole community at King's. It's about creating welcoming, adaptive spaces where our students and staff can come together and develop meaningful connections across our institution and create our future together.
Professor Rachel Mills, Senior Vice President (Academic), King's College London
The redevelopment will significantly increase overall student space at the Strand.
By adapting the existing building, the South West Wing will be fully electric, designed to meet the highest sustainability standards, reduce carbon emissions, and lower operating costs.
Baiyu Liu, President of King's College London Student Union (KCLSU), said: "This wonderful new development puts King’s at the heart of London with students firmly at the centre."
David Rowsell, Managing Director, Kier Construction London & Thames Valley, said: "Breaking ground marks an important milestone in our partnership with King's College London as we transform the Bush House South West Wing into a world-leading education and learning hub.
"We're excited to continue this collaboration and look forward to creating a space that will inspire learning, innovation and community for years to come."
Learn how you can support the Bush House South West Wing redevelopment project.
In this story
Vice-Chancellor & President of King's College London
Senior Vice President (Academic)