Co-locating functions and services within a single development provides an opportunity for the whole to be greater than the sum of the parts. Combining facilities can broaden access, animate spaces, support wider regeneration and deliver sustainable solutions with the potential for cross funding.

ArchitecturePLB has experience of the issues and opportunities that arise and has delivered various combinations of uses. At Castle Green in Dagenham we delivered a new secondary school and separately funded community facilities in an integrated civic centre. As well as the school, the centre offers a public library, nursery and crèche together with facilities for conferences, functions, community sports, adult and further education.