New buildings in line for design awards

From the archive, first published Tuesday 20th Mar 2007.

Six buildings in the Bradford area have been shortlisted for a property "Oscar" in the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Pro Yorkshire Awards.

They are vying for the prestigious prizes that recognise outstanding development in the region.

The winners, chosen by a panel of property professionals, will be revealed at a gala dinner at Leeds Town Hall on Friday, May 25.

Hilmore House, the new headquarters for Morrison's supermarkets, in Gain Lane, Thornbury, Bradford, is shortlisted in the Commercial category. The judges say the building mixes old and new, with a Yorkshire stone façade.

The Silk Warehouse, Lister Mills, Manningham, Bradford, is selected in the Building Conservation section. Its conversion into apartments by development company Urban Splash is described as "a catalyst for change in Manningham".

Simon Gawthorpe, managing director of Urban Splash Yorkshire, said he was delighted the building was in contention for an award.

Also in the Building Conservation category is Myddleton Lodge, Langbar Road, Ilkley, the restoration of a Grade 1 listed hunting lodge.

Chosen from the Community Benefit category is Westbourne Green Community Health Care Centre, Heaton Road, Bradford. It is said to have "dramatically improved the provision of health and social care in the area."

The Atrium at the University of Bradford, described as "a vibrant multi-functional student gathering and social space" is selected under Design and Innovation

The judges say: "The innovative design unites the surrounding buildings but stands as a jewel inserted into the urban fabric. A glass prism entrance completes the design and stands as a beacon to passers-by proclaiming the presence of the University of Bradford."

Otley Library and Tourist information Centre is shortlisted under Community Benefit. The £1.09 million Conservation Area scheme opened in January 2006. It is praised as "energy-efficient and durable, whilst being innovative and attractive in design."

In North Yorkshire, Hellifield Peel, Hellifield, near Skipton, has been chosen in the Building Conservation category. The ruined 14th century castle has been turned into an eco-friendly family home that recently featured on Channel 4's Grand Design programme.

RICS North operations director Jennifer Welch said: "These are all very different schemes which share the mark of attention to detail and quality. The judges will have a hard time choosing between them."

It is the fifth year of the The Pro Yorkshire Awards which mark the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment.

This year has seen a record number of entries and the exceptionally high standard has led the judges to shortlist more schemes than ever before.

e-mail: jenny.loweth

@bradford.newsquest.co.uk