The London Irish Centre in Camden is set to undergo a £38 million redevelopment, transforming it into a major cultural hub with London's first dedicated Irish theatre, a cinema, and a public library. Construction firm Sisk has been appointed as the main contractor for the project, which will expand the building from two to three floors.
New Features and Spaces
The revamped centre on Camden Square will include a 130-seat studio theatre and cinema, a multi-purpose performance space, a heritage and archive centre preserving Irish history in Britain, and a public library with over 7,000 Irish literary works. It will also offer modern community and enterprise spaces, welfare facilities, a multi-level bar, a cafe, and dedicated areas for artists and rehearsals.
Timeline and Funding
Work is expected to begin in 2027 and finish in the first quarter of 2029. During construction, the current centre will remain operational, with welfare services moving to temporary local offices and cultural programmes running at partner venues across London. Funding for the project comes from the Irish government and donor pledges, with a significant portion already secured.
Community Impact
Rosaleen Blair, chair of the London Irish Centre, said: 'Today's announcement is a huge milestone, which follows almost ten years of careful planning. In Sisk, we have engaged a world-class builder to deliver a world-class home, that matches the aspirations of the Irish diaspora in Britain.' She added that pledges cover a meaningful proportion of the estimated £36-38 million cost, demonstrating donor confidence.
The London Irish Centre has served the Irish community in London for over 70 years, offering trad sessions, hurling screenings, Gaelic classes, community meals, wellbeing advice, and hardship grants.
