Challenge

The central challenge was the significant disparity between the footprint of the existing facilities and the limited space available within the church site.

A one-for-one replacement was unachievable, requiring innovative solutions to balance competing requirements for library services, community activities, pre-school provision, and church functions.

Key concerns included safeguarding sufficient space for all users, ensuring accessibility, retaining external play areas, and resolving parking and circulation constraints. The budget was also subject to uncertainty, being dependent on the parallel residential development.

Solution

Carré Consultancy led a structured feasibility process, combining technical analysis with close stakeholder engagement. Through iterative design stages, options were developed for a compact and efficient hub, making best use of available space via:-

• An infill extension to create flexible, multi-use spaces.
• Reconfigured layouts to replace surplus offices with secure staff areas, additional toilets, and a buggy park.
• Accessibility improvements, including a platform lift, entrance ramp, and rationalised circulation.
• Revised parking strategies, including new dedicated spaces to the north of the church.
• Value engineering measures to maintain affordability while meeting functional requirements.

Collaboration

Regular workshops with Medway Council, library services, the church, and pre-school ensured that operational needs were fully considered and conflicts addressed collaboratively.