Race is on to win top Norfolk design prize

The race to win one of Norfolk's most prestigious design awards is under way.

All local amenity societies, applicants and agents who have submitted five or more planning applications in the last two years, local architects and landscape architects and all members of the Norfolk Association of Architects have been contacted about the 2007 South Norfolk Design Awards.

The closing date for the South Norfolk Council organised awards is August 31.

Last year, Cromer architect James Bond took the top prize with his transformed former industrial unit.

He turned it into a stunning new sustainable home with a roof of evergreen, drought-tolerant sedum plants.

South Norfolk Councillor and Design Champion Martin Wynne said:

"Having been involved in the competition for several years, I am delighted that design is continually considered as extremely important in relation to individual properties and major developments alike, for both residential and commercial premises. "Good design can be somewhat subjective but through collaboration and discussion the best possible solution can be achieved. There are many good examples especially linking the old with the modern.

"A major factor today must be a strong commitment to sustainable development which is essential for the future. Today's development must not be just about quantity but the quality as it is our legacy to future generations."

In his speech to last year's awards, Jim Bond said of his winning design at Green Lane in Hales:

"New buildings will be with us for a long time and compromising on design is a missed opportunity to provide us now and in the future with the buildings that fit well in their setting, are efficient to run and have a minimal impact on the environment.

"I passionately believe that sustainable design is essential and not just for individual projects, but big developments. It does not have to be expensive or wacky, gimmicky or extravagant."

Entries will be judged by a panel of Councillors and Officers and an external assessor nominated by the Norfolk Association of Architects on behalf of the Royal Institute of British Architects. Their decision is final.

If no nominations reach the panel's high standards, no award will be made. It is a tough competition, and this has contributed to its reputation as an award worth having.

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