Plymouth projects win awards

A unique children’s theatre and a housing scheme to help veterans learn construction skills as well as have somewhere to live, were two of the projects to win in this year’s Abercrombie Awards.

Plymouth’s best loved buildings – and the people who helped create them – where in the spotlight for the city’s Abercrombie Awards 2017.

The awards, which are organised by Plymouth City Council every three years, are designed to celebrate the new buildings and spaces that have helped make Plymouth the city it is today.

Stiltskin’s Soapbox Children’s Theatre was chosen by the public to win the People of Plymouth award with over 1,000 votes cast. They also received a Highly Commended from the judges in the Best Community Project category.

The regeneration of North Prospect was given the Judges Special Award for its role in transforming the city.

The Nelson Project, a development born from a vision to deliver a flagship housing scheme, was made overall winner of the Abercrombie Award for demonstrating design excellence and innovation.

Councillor Patrick Nicholson, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for the Strategic Transport, Housing and Planning said: “All these projects have helped change the lives of people here in Plymouth.

The standard and variety of work to create places for businesses and homes and the amount of effort to involve as many local people as possible has been great to see.

“All these projects are bringing jobs and opportunities and a sense of pride into Plymouth.”

Paul Barnard, Assistant Director for Strategic Planning and Infrastructure at Plymouth City Council added: “It’s fantastic to step outside the planning process and look at everything that has been achieved over the last three years.

“Incredible buildings have sprung up, homes and streets that have changed the fortunes of an entire neighbourhood have been created and amazing spaces have been cultivated for local people to enjoy. The Abercrombie Awards celebrate the people and organisations who have made this happen.”

There were over 60 entries over the eight main categories, with the three special awards above given on the night.