Education centre planned in the heart of Stratford

Newham Council have given the University of East London and Birkbeck University of London the green light for the 8,600sq m building on Great Eastern Road.

It has the working title Stratford Island University Centre .

UEL Vice-chancellor Prof Patrick McGhee said: “This joint vision between two of London’s most progressive educational institutions shows that despite challenging economic circumstances we can still create a major university hub in East London, through collaboration; one which will meet the academic aspirations of local people, whatever those aspirations may be, through a variety of world-class educational facilities.”

The centre, catering for college and university students, will house a range of departments from each university. Construction is planned to start next year, with completion by the 2013 academic year.

The car-free site will have a fully landscaped 600sq m learning garden and the plans include a large number of glass and photovoltaic panels and a ‘green’ roof

There will be dedicated spaces for subjects including law, information technology, performing arts, dance and music.

For the latter three subjects, the universities hope to forge close links with the neighbouring Theatre Royal Stratford East and Stratford Circus cinema.

James Taylor, partner at the centre’s designers Make Architects, said: “The building will have a hugely positive effect on the area. The scheme is formed from a series of shifting blocks, reaching up to five storeys, which express the variety of spaces and activities inside.

“The building has a prominent public presence, with an almost civic character. Large runs of glazing at ground level and giant picture windows above are incorporated to display the great mix of educational activities taking place inside.”