Imperial College Plans £6bn AI Campus in White City

TL;DR:

  • Imperial College London has launched public consultation on a 12-storey AI research facility in White City
  • The building will unite computer scientists, mathematicians, and business experts to advance data science and machine learning
  • Construction could begin mid-2026 with completion in 2029, subject to planning approval

Imperial College London has set out plans for a major AI research facility in west London, marking a significant expansion of the university’s capabilities in artificial intelligence and data science. The 12-storey building would create a dedicated hub for machine learning research whilst providing public amenities including cafés and exhibition spaces.

Context and Background

The proposed facility forms part of Imperial’s broader White City campus masterplan, for which Hammersmith and Fulham Council granted outline planning permission in 2019. The new building aims to create what Imperial describes as “a powerful engine for data science, AI and machine learning” by bringing together specialists from computer science, mathematics, and business disciplines under one roof.

The development includes research laboratories and collaborative spaces across its upper floors, whilst the ground and first floors would remain open to both campus users and the local community. This approach reflects growing recognition of AI research facilities as community assets rather than purely academic spaces.

Looking Forward

A public consultation on the detailed plans runs until 26 October 2025, with a full planning application expected to be submitted to Hammersmith and Fulham Council later this year. If approved, construction could commence mid-2026 with the facility becoming operational in 2029.

The investment strengthens London’s position as a European AI research hub, adding significant capacity to Imperial’s existing strengths in science, technology, and engineering. The White City campus already houses several research institutes, and this addition would consolidate the area’s reputation as a centre for advanced technology development.

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