Search starts for borough’s best new developments

Rochdale Pioneer’s Museum was presented with the ‘People’s Design Award’ last year

The search is on for the borough’s best building or regeneration project.

It may be something with an unusual or striking design that blends in well with its surroundings, something with innovative ‘green’ features or a user-friendly community development. Whatever you like about the building, public space, conservation or regeneration project, Rochdale Borough Council wants to know.

The council’s Rochdale Borough Design Awards celebrate the best in new development design, focusing on the relationship between good design and building successful communities.

The awards will again be sponsored by Countryside Properties, after the new home developer renewed its association with the competition.

There will be two awards - the Rochdale Borough Design Award and the People’s Design Award, decided by an online public vote. The judges may also decide to make additional awards.

Suggestions for the 2016 awards are welcome now, and they can be from any part of the borough – Rochdale, Middleton, Heywood or the Pennines. Nominations close on 21 December.

To be eligible, the development must have been completed since 6 October 2014 or be very close to completion. Eligible nominated developments will be considered for a shortlist which will go forward for the Rochdale Borough Design Award and for the public vote for the People’s Award.

John Jones, Design Director at Countryside Properties and one of the judges, said they are pleased to be sponsoring the awards again:

“It is always inspiring to see so many fantastic new buildings. Awards like these are a great way to raise the profile of design standards, as well as the benefit and enjoyment it can provide for the community. We are now welcoming entries and look forward to a fabulous celebratory event in the New Year."

Council Leader Richard Farnell added: “The design awards are part of the council’s commitment to recognising design excellence in new buildings and regeneration schemes, and since 2009 we have highlighted some of the best. I look forward to seeing some great examples of designs that have enhanced their surroundings.”

All kinds of developments can be nominated, including individual buildings, open spaces, conservation schemes and regeneration projects.

The nomination form includes details of the judging criteria.

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