News

The Borough of Poole is seeking nominees for the annual Pride of Place Award, which will be presented to the lucky winner this summer. There will also be a special prize for the best example of sustainable construction.

Organisers of the Council's Pride of Place Award are looking for entries that reflect the Council's commitment to the environment. The judges will be looking for developments with design quality and focusing on sustainable construction techniques such as innovation in siting, the use of local or recycled materials, community involvement and saving energy, water or waste.

The award, a pottery plaque to display at the prize-winning development, is given to projects that have made the greatest contribution to sustainability, quality and appearance of public areas. There is no restriction on the size or type of scheme that can be considered. To be nominated for the 2002 award schemes need to have been completed in 2000/01. For the 2003 award the projects need to have been completed in 2001/02

John Biggs, Leader of the Environment Team in Planning, Design & Control Services, said: "It is important that we promote sustainable construction and reward those who consider the quality and appearance of a public area. We are encouraging everyone involved in the development process to sign up to "Future Foundations" - a sustainable construction charter promoted by Regional Government in the South West."

The closing date for this year's nominees is noon on Thursday 1 May 2003. Anyone can nominate a project and nomination forms can be picked up from the Civic Centre or libraries. If you need any advice you can contact John Biggs, on (01202) 633331 or Richard Knott on (01202) 633335.

Poole's Pride of Place Award has been a regular event since 1980. The Old Generator House, Bourne Valley Road and the Study Gallery at Bournemouth and Poole College, North Road jointly won the 2001 award.

The judging panel will be made up of five people including the Mayor of Poole, the Chairman of the Planning Committee, an architect nominated by the local chapter of the Royal Institute of British Architects and an expert in sustainable development. Panel members to be confirmed due to local elections on 1 May. For more information contact John Biggs.