Heywood Sports Village finishes first in regional awards

Heywood Sports Village won the award in recognition of its significant contribution to the community

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One of the borough’s new buildings has scooped a regional award known as the property ‘Oscars’.

Heywood Sports Village was named as winner of the 2012 RICS Community Benefit Award for the North West during a ceremony at Lancashire County Cricket Club.

Local people were instrumental in the design of Heywood Sports Village, that has seen public visits increase dramatically since it replaced the old sports centre and received excellent feedback.

Craig McAteer, Managing Director of Link4Life, said he was very proud: “There were some very strong nominations so to actually win the award is an excellent achievement. The community has been involved with the building right from the beginning and have really taken it to their hearts. This is much deserved by everyone involved.”

Councillor Alan McCarthy, Chairman of Heywood Township, was equally delighted: “It’s great news that these local achievements are being recognised. Local people are proud of Heywood Sports Village and awards like this are well deserved recognition for the drive and determination that was shown by all partners involved in making sure it was built.”

Jim Taylor, Chief Executive of Rochdale Borough Council, added: “Everything about the Sports Village represents success – from the partnerships and co-operation that led to it being built, through to the very impressive increase in usage over the facilities it replaced, and now winning this award. I would like to offer my congratulations to all involved.”

Heywood Sports Village will now go forward to the national stage of the competition held later this year.