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 Results of Award

Winning Entry: 

"Green Energy Biogas Plant Supporting Sustainable Agricultural Model", entered into the Regional Award only by The Landscape Partnership Ltd.  The Award for Planning Achievement was given because of the exemplary level of consultation, community involvement and negotiation carried out by The Landscape Partnership in the process of securing permission for the new plant (the first of it’s type in the UK) which was championed by AgriGen Ltd, a cooperative of local farming businesses in east Suffolk. The bio-gas plant will be built on part of the former Bentwaters Airbase at Rendlesham and energy will be procuded from ‘green’ crops grown in rotation on local farmers’ land. For more information, see the Press Release.  

In the words of the judges: “A truly innovative scheme with a commendably thorough preparation process.  The planner’s role shines through as being more than that of co-ordinator and manager – rather the planner can be seen to do these things but as a positive driver of the project”. 

Paul Mathews, Managing Director of The Landscape Partnership, said: "We are delighted that this project has been recognised as a winner. The project was an excellent opportunity to guide a ground breaking renewable energy project on a sensitive site through the planning process. We love to lead truly sustainable projects with innovative clients, particularly when there are so many positive environmental benefits – it is inspiring.”

Runners-up:

"The Riverside Bridge", submitted to the Regional Award via the RTPI National Award by Cambridgeshire County Council.  

The 200- metre Riverside Bridge is a unique landmark structure. It spans across the River Cam to provide a safe, segregated link into Cambridge and is part of the wider local and national foot and cycleway network. The bridge’s 70-tonne steel arched frame design was chosen by public vote and a panel of experts in 2004. It also features a low level walkway, a separate cycleway, and seating areas for people to relax and enjoy views of the river.

The judges commented that this was “an exemplar scheme demonstrating how full public engagement can result in an iconic structure”. “The involvement of the community that lives with and uses this bridge is as striking as the bridge itself.  An innovative design ensuring the safety of cyclists and pedestrians, was matched by an innovative approach to provision, not just through the design competition but through the publicity given and involvement of the local paper”.

Cambridgeshire County Councillor Roy Pegram, Cabinet member for Growth, Infrastructure and Strategic Planning said: “Winning this award is a great achievement. The striking modern design of Riverside bridge has the right balance of respecting the existing surroundings whilst providing a high quality, innovative and attractive structure. The local community were involved throughout from consultation to choosing the final winning design. The bridge also plays a vital part in our commitment to improving cycling and walking around Cambridge city. “

Third place:

"BeWILDerwood", submitted to the Regional Award via the RTPI National Award by Bidwells.  The judges said it was “A well thought out and well planned project resulting in a brilliant educational, imaginative and exciting activity for kids and families.  The planning process was well managed resulting in an outcome that all parties are happy with” and “A fine example of rural diversification which maximised its natural benefits whilst minimising the proposal’s impact upon them”.

Congratulations to all concerned!  

The results of the 2009 RTPI National Planning Awards have been announced - see the main Awards web page for more details.

Download a nomination form the Regional 2010 Awards here.

Further information on the Regional Awards can be obtained from Richard Chillingford, Regional Honorary Secretary.  Tel: 01449 672550; Email: eastofengland@rtpi.org.uk

Author:

Tina Jessup

Publisher:

The Royal Town Planning Institute

Date:

01-Mar-10

Categories:

Nations & Regions 

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