LONDON (VINnews) – The U.K. government has approved plans for what would be China’s largest embassy in Europe, brushing aside fierce opposition from local residents and activists who are now taking their fight to court.

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A legal challenge to the project is scheduled to be heard July 14.

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Hong Kong dissidents who fled Beijing’s crackdown on the former British territory expressed deep concern that the proposed “super embassy” could heighten surveillance and intimidation against Chinese exiles already living under threat in the U.K.

A U.K. government spokesperson told CBS News that national security remained the top priority in the decision-making process, with intelligence agencies involved throughout.

“Any attempts by a foreign state to coerce, intimidate, harass, or harm individuals on U.K. soil will never be tolerated,” the spokesperson said.

The Chinese embassy in the U.K. did not respond to a request for comment.

The approval comes amid broader worries about Chinese influence operations in Britain and Europe. Activists have warned that the expanded diplomatic footprint could provide greater cover for intelligence activities targeting dissidents, including pro-democracy advocates from Hong Kong.

The story was first reported by CBS News.