The Blackpool Civic Trust Awards Ceremony for 2008
Thursday 22nd January 2009
This Annual Ceremony gives out a variety of prestigious and much sought after awards.
The Shields given to schools for their work in the Environment were this year won by;
Senior Shield
Park School, Whitegate Drive.
Junior Shield
Anchorsholme School.
Open Spaces Award
This year was given to the Friends of Highfield Park.
Design Awards went to four apartment blocks.
The Church Apartments,
Dickson Road.
Builder/Owner: Flamemanor Developments Ltd
Berkeley & Grosvenor House Flats
Builder: Fylde Developments
Whitegate Drive.
Park Apartments, Haweside Lane
Builder:Belmont Developments
29 Grosvenor Street
Builder Willow Tree Croft Ltd
Purely by coincidence the same architect worked on all the above properties
David Hadwin
Keystone Design Associates
261 Church St
Blackpool
FY1 3PB
Two Awards were given to Council led projects covered?by the Townscape Heritage Initiative
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These were:
THE CHOIR LOFT
Builder: Parkinson Building Contractors
Stone Mason: Rushview Ltd
Click here to read more about the Choir Loft
32 TALBOT ROAD
Builder: Timms & Ashton
Owners: Mr B & Miss P Scholes
Private enterprise was represented by three firms
A heritage renovation of the Derby Racer by the
Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Awards for this were also given to:
Philip England (Architect)
Jacobs Engineering UK
Fylde Joinery & Building Services Ltd
Global Engineering LtdThe heritage renovation of the Roof at Jungle Jim’s in Blackpool Tower by Leisure Parcs
And the third private enterprise is a new build
Owner: Modus
Architect: Andrew Ogg of Leslie Jone Architects
Builder: Balfour Beatty Construction
From the Community Sector we chose
The Rothwell Hall, Unitarian Church, Lytham Road
Awards were collected by Church workers
Ed & Trish Buckley
Colin & Jean Langfield
and benefactor Frank Rothwell MBE
Two special awards were given this year
The first was for the innovative tableau ‘Venus Reborn’ by Laurence Llewellyn-Bowen. The tableau is 21 feet tall by 50 feet wide and included Greek gods such as Mercury, Cupid, Venus and Bacchus. With water jets, a tank of water and LED lights.
Our final award went to Carl Carrington
Blackpool’s Built Heritage Manager, for the work he does as Manager of the Townscape Heritage Initiative and for the great help and encouragement he gives to the Blackpool Civic Trust
Civic Trust Awards 2009
Blackpool Civic Trust Awards for 2009
Held on Thursday 21st January 2010
The annual awards ceremony was held at the attractive St John’s Conference Centre in Blackpool.
It was attended by Blackpool VIP’s including The Worshipful the Mayor of Blackpool; Norman Hardy, our Patron: Jimmy Armfield CBE and Joan Humble MP, Gordon Marsden MP. Plus the heads of Blackpool organisations involved in town development and the architects, designers and developers and the award judges. With members of the Blackpool Civic Trust around 150 people.
Including the President of Blackpool Civic Trust – local historian Mr Barry Shaw.
Both of our Vice-Presidents – Cllr David Owen and Mr Martin Gunson. Two of our founder members 35 years ago next month who have remained loyal ever since.
This Annual Ceremony gives out a variety of prestigious and much sought after awards.
Mrs Elaine Smith MBE, Chairman, introduced the event and award winners were announced by Andy Mitchell of Radio Wave.
Photo: Elaine with the Mayor of Blackpool.
Andy Mitchell
St John’s Conference Centre Main Room.
Blackpool Civic Trust is one of 750 local civic trusts and part of the national civic trust organisation currently called the Civic Society Initiative. We are also part of the Lancashire Federation.
The Lancashire Federation is in turn part of the North West Association of Civic Trusts and Societies – NWacts for short.
NWacts is one of the nine regional societies throughout the country and the Chairman of this, Mr Peter Colley, is with us this evening.
The Shields given to schools for their work in the Environment were this year won by:
Junior Environmental Shield
Moor Park Primary School, award presented by Councillor Don Clapham.
The Junior Environmental Shield goes to Moor Park School for an exceptional year of activity in enhancing the school grounds and the surrounding area. In 2008, with a grant from the local Ward Councillors, the pupils created a natural garden on a previously unused area in the school grounds.
In addition, in early 2009 the school helped plant hundreds of trees on land next to the school, supported by Veterans and Blackpool Council’s Parks Department and was given a discretionary award at the North West Region in Bloom.
Senior Environmental Shield
Blackpool 6th Form College, award presented by Councillor Don Clapham.
Blackpool Sixth Form College receive the shield this year for the activities of the student run Eco Council. Formed in September 2007 as a student-run group to promote environmental action and responsibility at The Blackpool Sixth Form College, the group have worked in partnership with other schools both in Blackpool and overseas to promote energy saving and environmental agendas.
In addition Christopher Hodson, photographed with the shield above, won the BCT Award for Environmentalism.
Blackpool Environmental Action Team
Julie Moore for Bethesda Square Childrens Playground, award presented by Mr David Rothwell.
Julie Moore first approached BEAT at a Reassurance public meeting three years ago, and just didn’t go away. After three years of hard work campaigning and fundraising her idea for a pocket park on Bethesda Rd finally came to fruition and in September 2009 the park was completed and opened.
Julie will also soon be taking the chair of the newly formed Friends of Bethesda Park, which will among other things be looking at funding to further improve the facilities at the site. Not content with this, Julie is also a leading figure in the Kent Road residents group,
Community Award
The Boathouse Project, Lytham Road, Blackpool.
Presented by: Mr Jimmy Armfield CBE
The Boathouse Project opened its workshop and fundraising shop in the spring of 2009. Activities include ‘Join up for Joinery’ 6-week courses for 16-19 year olds on the NEET register referred by Connections. The Boathouse project also undertakes individual projects for young people referred by Community Police and many other community groups. Teaching in the workshop is undertaken by retired carpenters largely drawn from a local wood carving club.
In addition, the Futures programme, designed to help teenage mums with practical life skills and mutual support networks has been very successful in its first few months of operation.
The enormous range of partner organisations working with the Boathouse is a testament to the need for this kind of service and its importance was recognised by the fact that the centre was formally opened by the Archbishop of Canterbury on the 6th November 2009.
Sponsors
We are grateful to three of our previous award winners who agreed to sponsor the evening.
Judges
The following award winners were selected by a judging panel.
Malcolm Hankey – MD Civic Trust Awards
Pippa Greenway – BC Planning Officer
Emma Law – College Student
Robert Taziker – BCT Planning Officer
Alison Grant – Places Matter!
For the past 50 years the Civic Trust held a prestigious Award Ceremony. Following administration this side of the Civic Trust and its 50 years of archives was bought out by the person who was at that time running it, Mr Malcolm Hankey. Malcolm agreed to be one of our judges.
Pippa Greenway from the Blackpool Council Planning Office. We are ‘friendly adversaries’ of the council with the accent mainly on the ‘friendly’ and we try very hard to work together as Pippa has kindly proved.
Because the buildings of today are the future heritage for our children and grandchildren we always have a junior judge on our panel and this year is a student from the Blackpool Sixth Form College, Miss Emma Law. Emma is hoping to study architecture.
From our own committee, Bob Taziker, the Blackpool Civic Trust Planning officer. Bob had no knowledge of the names of the builders, designers, etc as they were just judging the buildings on their own merit.
Alison Grant, architect and the Business Development Manager for Places Matter!
Best Night Time Economy Award
Che Bar
Gary Hunt – Brook Leisure
Ian Sanderson – Sanderson Contracts Ltd
Graham Taylor – Easy Design Solutions
Presented by: Mr Barry Shaw
This award goes to Che bar, for its conversion of the ground floor of the Grade II Clifton Hotel to a highly successful bar and nightclub complex.
The award recognises the retention of a number of key features of the historic building, particularly the ceilings of the early twentieth century extension onto Talbot Square and the plasterwork of the original dining room.
The award also recognises the thematic nature of the venue which is centred on an old Havana/Cuban feel and the use of different styles and music/entertainment offers throughout the complex, a departure from standard bar and club design in the town.
The award also recognises the commitment of the owners to addressing the whole building rather than just the key bar areas, and their investment in the town at a difficult time has provided not only an addition to the vibrant and quirky bar scene, but a quality hotel offer, fitted out to a high standard, in a key landmark building in the town centre.
Their replacing of poor quality plastic windows with working timber sash windows and the external lighting of the building with the assistance of a grant from the Blackpool Townscape Heritage Initiative has made an enormous difference to the appearance of the building and enhanced the overall appearance of Talbot Square.
Best Shop Front Award
Joint Winners: Lounge and Jagar Jewellers
Jim Connaught – Jagar Jewellers
Dimi Akram – Lounge Cafe / Restaurant
Carl Carrington – Designer
Rob Knighton – Eclipse Developments – Contractor
Presented by: Mrs Joan Humble MP
The Lounge Cafe and Jagar Jewellers were the first of a number of Townscape Heritage Initiative shopfronts to open on the newly re-designed Cedar Square earlier this year.
The renewal of shopfronts on Cedar Square posed problems for the Council as until the 1960’s the bulk of the properties on the street retained a residential character similar to those adjoining on Edward Street. This meant that it was difficult to restore original shop frontages as there hadn’t actually been any. This resulted in a decision to create a group of shopfronts, each following a set format in overall frame but with individual features such as window forms, fascias, colours and detailing.
Both of these shops combine traditional craftsmanship with bold practical designs based around the needs of the client business. The shopfronts are of quality hardwoods with solid brass and steel fittings and feature traditional canvas awnings.
The windows on the upper floors have been restored as working timber sash windows and the render to the frontages renewed with lime rich white coloured renders to underline the seaside feel of the row.
Plans are already going ahead for the creation of another five such shopfronts, a development which will transform Cedar Square in a primary area for eating/drinking and independent retail.
Best Refurbishment Award
Langtry’s
King Edward Avenue
David Webb and Julie Sayers – Langtry-s
Kevin Lavin and Paul Taylor – Unique Constuction
Presented by: Mrs Helen Mansell
Langtry’s Hotel represents what can be achieved with an eye for quality and the will to deliver a boutique offer in the UK’s capital of Bed and Breakfast accommodation.
With beautifully redecorated interiors featuring the best in bathroom design, light, spacious rooms with luxury touches, Langtry’s continues the re-definition of the Bed and Breakfast offer in the Town. Featured last year on the Hotel Inspector, the business has gone from strength to strength and has been important in proving that the investment in creating a boutique B&B offer can be highly successful even in the current economic climate.
The judges were impressed with the simplicity and quality of the fittings but the simple luxury touches like lambs wool throws and luxury cotton bedding along with the superb bathrooms were key points of note for everyone.
Reviews of the hotel always feature the welcome and friendliness of the staff and it is this in conjunction with the luxury feel of the public and private rooms that will make people return time after time.
Best Public Realm Award
St John’s / Cedar Square
Carl Carrington – Blackpool THI Board
Derek Greaves – Project Manager
Lindsay Humblet – The Planit Group
Tom Elliot – on behalf of Lucy Glendinning – Artist
Graham Laing & Andy Mounsey – P Casey & Co Ltd
Presented by: Councillor Maxine Callow
The St Johns and Cedar Square project was commissioned in 2008 by Blackpool Council, who recognised that the town lacked a public space for events, markets and festivities.
The Council went to great lengths with public consultation to assess what local residents and stakeholders wanted to see in the space and in the end were happily able to deliver all of the key requirements with fountains, trees and floral planting, improved seating, lighting and paving forming the key features surrounding this multi purpose events space.
The most exciting new feature in the space is the Wave sculpture designed by Lucy Glendinning, surrounded by clear resin boulders, the whole eleven metre undulating wave of high grade duplex steel is internally lit with colour change LED lights. The sculpture uses shapes and patterns from the stained glass in St John’s Church, now also lit internally and externally to great effect.
The delivery of the final design took just seven months and the support of the local businesses was a huge help in the process. Since the formal opening by Lawrence Llewelyn Bowen in the presence of the Worshipful Mayor Blackpool on September 5th last year, the site has hosted a concert and a Christmas Ice rink.
The coming highlight for the square will be the Showzam! festival coming up in the February half term. The quality of the materials and design and the flexibility for the space to be used for all kinds of events
Best New Build Award
Nominations
PCT Health Centre, Whitegate Drive
A striking new development on Whitegate drive by the local primary care trust, the centre uses a mix of high quality materials and the striking approach combined with the original Victorian gateposts and boundary walls add an interesting feature. The centrepiece of the spacious and light foyer is an enormous multi coloured Ditchfield Glass chandelier
Community Centre, Lee Road
Designed by Matt Hill of Blackpool Council’s Capital Projects Department, the design reflects a tented form with a central lantern. The space inside includes an attractive circular meeting space for the community with education, meeting and kitchen spaces accessed from this central space. The community worked closely with Matt in designing the building and specifying what facilities they needed.
St John’s Primary School, Church St
A simple but elegant modernist style design for the new home of Blackpool’s oldest free school. Located in the town centre on Church Street, the school utilises classic materials in an a smart, slightly retro frontage. The school itself has an unconventionally ingenious layout, providing open air play spaces on a number of levels along with bright new classrooms and facilities.
Blackpool Sixth Form College
Another striking new building featuring a very modern frontage with strong vertical emphasis. The building responds well to its site with the south facing front featuring fixed permanent window shades as an architectural feature and beautifully light art studios on the ground floor. Other areas of the college have been transformed including the spacious and attractively arrange atrium style lounge opening onto the internal courtyard.
Blackpool & Fylde College
The materials of the third of our modern educational buildings nominated picks up the colour of the Victorian red-brick buildings to which it stands adjacent with simple red terracotta tiling to the bulk of the facade. Another very striking modern design, this time with a slightly more horizontal emphasis, the buildings chief feature is a floor to ceiling central atrium with attractive cafe, library and reception facilities on the ground floor.
The Winner: St John’s Church of England Primary School
Mrs J.Snape and Mrs G.Ward
Corin Yarrow – Aedas Architects Ltd
Peter Glenn & Ray Eyre – Parkinson’s Building Contracators
Presented by: Mr Doug Garrett
St John’s Primary School
The newly opened St John’s school is the latest in a series of ambitious designs for twenty first century schools in Blackpool. The first of these at Devonshire Road was a previous winner of a Blackpool Civic Trust Award and this, the latest is another superb example of modern school building.
The former St John’s School was unable to provide properly for the growing needs of the school, unsurprising as it was formed of a number of elements dating from the 1810’s to the 1930’s.
This development had happened ad-hoc and the lack of play and classroom space forced the governors to seek a new site for the school. After some time it became obvious that a new site could not be afforded with the limited resources available and it was decided with some sadness to re-build on the schools original site.
The designs by Aedas incorporated open air play space on three different levels with well lit class and internal activity space. The exterior is of textured brick and ceramic tile reflecting the art deco Stanley Buildings immediately opposite across Church Street.
The judges were impressed with the quality of construction executed by Parkinson’s as well as the way in which the building’s size and arrangement respected the proportions of the local streetscape whilst providing space in ingenious ways.
The overall look and feel of the building was felt to be positive and the appearance of the building at night made all the more striking by the huge vertical stained glass window to the eastern half of the elevation.
Transforming Blackpool Award
Salisbury Woodland
Lisa Kersey – Parks’ Development Manager
Justine Hall – Ranger Service Officer
Rangers: Martyn Day, Larry Ryan, Jenna Trewarth
Presented by:
The Mayor of Blackpool, Councillor Norman E Hardy
The award goes to the Park Rangers for the Salisbury Woodland
Salisbury Woodland is Blackpool’s only amenity woodland site.It was originally planted in the 1930’s to act as a shelterbelt for StanleyPark Golf Course and wasdeveloped into a public open space during the 1950’s.
The site supported a very formal and exotic planting structure from the 1950’s through to the1970’s and was a popular beauty spot for wedding photographs. However, as the woodland habitat matured and more native trees and shrubs established, the woodland became less formal and more naturalised.
Its ecological value increased over time and as a result the woodland was designated a CountyBiological Heritage Site in 1993 for its moss, fungi, liverwort and lichen populations.
Sadly, the woodland became underused and neglected from the mid 1990’s to 2005. This resulted in the woodland habitat becoming compromised and very overgrown. The infrastructure, including paths and furniture, became hazardous and unattractive, which prevented visitors from safely accessing the site. Public perception of the site was at an all time low and the site lost its physical identity.
In 2005, the Council’s Parks and Green Environment Department established a Park Ranger Service to manage, protect and promote the town’s ecological sites. The service took over the responsibility of Salisbury Woodland and were tasked to implement sensitive restoration through an active management regime.
The site has been slowly renovated through a partnership approach led by the Rangers, Volunteer Rangers, Community Volunteers and Friends Group – setting a fine example of community involvement.
Closing Statement
Mr Gordon Marsden MP
Powerpoint presentation on the evening by Carl Carrington.
Photographs by Sophie Heywood of Blackpool 6th Form College.
Blackpool Civic Trust Awards for 2010
Held on Thursday 19th January 2011
Introduction
The annual awards ceremony was held at the St John’s Conference Centre in Blackpool.
St John’s Conference Centre Main Room.
It was attended by Blackpool VIP’s including The Worshipful the Mayor of Blackpool; Councillor Don Clapham and his wife, our Patron and Honorary Freeman of the Town: Jimmy Armfield CBE and Blackpool’s two MP’s: Gordon Marsden MP and Paul Maynard MP. Plus the heads of Blackpool organisations involved in town development and the architects, designers and developers and the award judges. With members of the Blackpool Civic Trust around 150 people.
Including the President of Blackpool Civic Trust – local historian Mr Barry Shaw.
Both of our Vice-Presidents – Cllr David Owen and Mr Martin Gunson. Two of our founder members 36 years ago next month who have remained loyal ever since.
This Annual Ceremony gives out a variety of prestigious and much sought after awards.
Mrs Elaine Smith MBE, Chairman, introduced the event and award winners were announced by Andy Mitchell of Radio Wave.
Jean presenting Chairman Elaine with a bouquet
Andy Mitchell of Radio Wave announced the winners
Mr Ian Harvey the Coordinator for Civic Voice which is the national body for the Civic Trusts was present.
Carl Carrington of Blackpool Civic Trust has been voted onto the Board of Trustees for Civic Voice.
We are also a member of the North West Association of Civic Trusts and Societies, our regional association. NWacts is one of the nine regional societies throughout the country.
Following the demise of the Civic Trust in London the torch for excellence in design has been taken up by Mr Malcolm Hankey, who formed a company to continue this important work alongside maintaining the 50 years of archives for the Civic Trust and also attended. He is also Managing Director of the National Civic Trust Awards.
The Shields given to schools for their work in the Environment were this year won by:
Junior Environmental Shield
The Junior Environmental Shield goes to Layton Primary School
Layton School has been awarded the Junior Environment Shield for its creative development of high quality sustainable outdoor space. The school has recently invested in new outdoor play equipment made of recycled plastics which was designed by the pupils. The school has initiated a programme of Outdoor Environment sessions where pupils work in family groups with a range of different ages planting and harvesting fruit and vegetables and in 2009 planted an orchard. The impact on the children has been enormously positive and participation levels have been high, peaking with the potato harvest, in which excited children forgot to gently dig up the potatoes from the sides of the raised beds and actually climbed in!
Presented by the Mayor Councillor Don Clapham
Senior Environmental Shield
The Senior School Shield this year goes to St Mary’s Catholic College
St Mary’s School has been awarded the Senior Environmental Shield for its commitment to environmental conservation and its widespread use of fair-trade products. The school has an Eco Club, which with the support of the staff has become the driving force behind an award winning programme of initiatives in reducing the schools carbon footprint through constant eco-auditing as well as use, promotion and sales of fair trade goods across the school. This programme of sustainable living activity has been an enormous success with pupils taking the eco message home to parents and wider family groups. This is an outstanding example of a school not just working to create a sustainable school environment, but to promote sustainable living outside school in the wider community.
Presented by the Mayor Councillor Don Clapham
The BEAT award for 2010 goes to the Grow Blackpool project
In April 2010 Groundwork launched the Grow Blackpool project, with the aim of increasing the health and wellbeing of the residents of Blackpool through gardening and growing.
Groundwork worked alongside Blackpool Reassurance in engaging the local community around the Gorton St area and two local primary schools. The community came together every Tuesday to work on the North Park garden at Gorton St. In just a few months they have transformed an unused space into a community garden. They have planted a community orchard, vegetable beds, a new lawn and a butterfly friendly herbaceous border. The community garden has brought the local people out of their houses, enabling them to meet new friends, exercise as well as growing their own food.
Cllr Steve Houghton, Chairman of the Blackpool Environmental Action Team Board to present their own BEAT Award. This is not one given by us but we are delighted to welcome Steve.
To collect the Award on behalf of all involved in the project we have Mr Dennis Crooks.
Community Award
This award goes to the Rock Centre on Mowbray Drive.
Originally this had been nominated as a building conversion award, but the closer the Civic Trust Looked, it was realised that the real impact of the Rock Centre was in its work with vulnerable adults. The Rock Centre offers a wide range of facilities for training and education to help vulnerable adults to become more confident and encourages independence through life skills training and education.
Through partnership with business, the centre offers real work opportunities to those who may struggle to enter the job market reducing isolation and encouraging self esteem. You’d think this was a pretty amazing achievement in itself, but on top of this, the centre acts as a focus for raising money for other charities as well offering an opportunity for the centres users to give help as well as receive it!
To collect the award we have Debbie Ellarby, Robert Gillon and Jacqui Parkinson
Annual Open Spaces Award
This award goes to Cavendish Recreation Ground, a fantastic green space located in Bispham, close to the sea front.
The Recreation ground has come a long way during the past four years thanks to the successful partnership between the Council’s Parks and Green Environment Department and a group of stakeholders including the Friends of Cavendish Road Recreation Ground, Bispham Bowling Club recreational concessionaire SPNW Leisure Ltd and the unwavering support of Ward Councillors.
All of these stakeholders, with extra special support from Lisa Kersey and Tim Riley of the Council’s Park’s Department, have driven projects like the fantastic new children’s playground, the conversion of a run down basketball court into a modern multi-use games area which, a new picnic area within the children’s playground and the work continues with a project to renovate the bowls pavilion on the site.
This example of so many groups working with the Council to create a real community facility is another superb example of community, business and local government working together to deliver improved neighbourhood facilities. This park won its first national Green Flag Award in 2010 and the award is a fantastic outcome for all those who have dedicated so much time and effort in making this site the best it can be and shows what good partnership working can achieve.
With this in mind it is with pleasure that I ask John Blackledge, Assistant Director of Leisure & Commercial Services to come and present our Annual Open Spaces Award.
Plaque: from Blackpool Council Lisa Kersey & Tim Riley
Glass: Chairman of the Friends of Cavendish Rd Park & Bowling Green Mr John Farnworth
Photograph of the Mayor and the Friends of Cavendish Park after the presentation.
Sponsors
Next, we are very grateful to three of our previous award winners who all agreed to sponsor us this evening.
Firstly we have my family who won an award for the Number One Hotels in 2007 for a massive refurbishment. Number One South Beach is providing your refreshments at the end of the proceedings.
Next we have Eclipse Development UK Ltd Building Contractors who have already won a couple of awards in previous years.
Lastly, but by no means least, F. Parkinsons Builders Ltd. They have been associated with our awards ever since we began. They have mainly been here as award winners but both last year and this have also acted as sponsors.
It is the generosity of these firms that has sponsored this evening and we are very, very grateful to them all.
2010 Awards for the Best Buildings
Judges of the best building work
Malcolm Hankey again agreed to be a judge for us this year.
Pippa Greenway from the Blackpool Council Planning Office.
Miss Samantha Dugdale who is currently studying at the Blackpool Sixth Form College.
Bob Taziker, the Blackpool Civic Trust Planning officer.
Alistair Baines from Cassidy & Ashton Architects of Preston & Chester.
Best Shop Front
This goes to No 5 Cedar Square
You couldn’t ask more from a contrast of the old and new than Cafe No.5 on Cedar Square! Its new frontage with a tall classically inspired shop front dominates the recently completed Cedar Square. The interior, on two floors is by complete contrast cool and contemporary with a focus on natural wood. This project has seen collaboration between the Blackpool Townscape Heritage Initiative and Invest in Blackpool.
Both schemes aimed at supporting economic change, particularly for small and medium sized businesses in the town. Owners Simon and Stephen Wrigley were the first to seize the opportunity of both initiatives and despite the difficult economic climate, made a significant investment in a new, high quality business on Cedar Square.
Presented by Mr Paul Maynard MP for Blackpool North.
Plaque – Partners from No 5 – The Wrigley family
Glass – Builder Rob Knighton, Eclipse UK Ltd
Glass – Designer Carl Carrington from Blackpool Council
Number 5
Cedar Square
The Wrigley family and Eclipse after the presentation.
Carl Carrington with Paul Maynard MP.
Award for the Best Building Refurbishment
This goes to The Albert & the Lion
This award recognises both the sensitive conversion of the ground floor of an important but unlisted Art Deco building and an exemplary partnership between the client architect, Andy Ince from Harris-Ince Architects, and the Urban Design section of the Council.
When JD Wetherspoon took over the ground floor of the former Woolworth building there were concerns about the impact this would have on the street frontage of this promenade landmark. However, the use of vertical bronzed metal elements and art deco ceramic decoration between the doors provides a modern solution with a period twist that sits well with the rest of this superb building. Sited next door to Blackpool Tower the naming of the new business after the famous poem was very apt whilst the interior design carries through the heritage theme of Blackpool.
Presented by our MP for Blackpool South, Mr Gordon Marsden
Plaque – Chris Ferriday, Jon Randall and Bekki White of Wetherspoons
Glass – Ian Sanderson from Sanderson’s Contractors Ltd
Glass – Andy Ince from Harris-Ince Architects, Knott Mills, Manchester
Glass: An extra award is being given to Tim Corry (late of Blackpool Planning Dept) for the extra help given on this project.
The Civic Trust understands that Tim was the Urban Design Manager for Blackpool Council and has now left to set up a business of his own. The Civic Trust extends its thanks for Tim’s work on this and many other schemes and wishes him well for the future.
Best New Building
Innovation and Export Centre, which houses the Product Design and Export Dept. of Glasdon UK Ltd on Preston New Road.
A steel and glass framed building with artisan brick panels, the building has a light feel despite its size. The design with its vertical emphasis makes the building appear taller than it actually is, and cleverly disguised service and venting areas add to the overall interest of the building. The quality of the materials and craftsmanship, particularly the metal framed windows and brickwork panels, set it apart from other nominations as befits the office of the internationally known Glasdon group. The people who work here enjoy light airy spaces, plenty of light and wide views
Plaque – Martin Wallwork, Mark Anderson & James Hodgson from Glasdon UK Ltd.
Glass – Architect Alistair Baines from Cassidy & Ashton, Preston
Glass – Joe Moxham and Duncan Worsley from Walter Carefoot & Sons Construction Ltd.
Transforming Blackpool Award
To Blackpool Council for securing the future of Blackpool Tower and the Winter Gardens.
This Award has been picked by the Blackpool Civic Trust Executive Committee. This evening has shown just how much Blackpool is being transformed.
Andy Mitchell spoke about why this year we decided to give our Transforming Blackpool Award for something about which we are all very pleased.
At the end of 2009, many Blackpool residents were pessimistic about the future of the Winter Gardens and constant letters of complaint about the deteriorating state of Blackpool Tower were arriving on the desk of the editor of the Gazette. Then, in April 2010, the Council made the announcement that it had secured a deal to purchase both buildings along with a significant slice of Golden Mile property from their former owners Leisure Parcs. This move, possibly the boldest decision by a local authority in recent times, cannot go without praise.
In doing what it did, Blackpool Council has secured the future of two internationally significant buildings, not just for Blackpool Residents, but for the whole country. The subsequent deal with Merlin Entertainments for the management of the Tower and the active programme of works to the Winter Gardens has delivered something that is likely to prove transformational on so many levels. Blackpool has always been proud of these buildings, now local people can be proud to be their owners!
Presented by the President of Blackpool Civic Trust Mr Barry Shaw.
Glass: Cllr Ian Fowler on behalf of Blackpool Council
The Tower being refurbished top to bottom, inside and out. Blackpool Council with Merlin.
Special Award
This is a double headed Award to Blackpool Football Club and Blackpool FC Community Trust
Blackpool Football Club was founded in the 1880’s and has played on its present Bloomfield Road ground since the demise of the Raikes Pleasure Garden at the end of the 19th century. Always a leader in the football world, it won the FA cup in 1953 before its fortunes began to wane. For the next four decades, although fluctuating between the 2nd and 3rd Division, it still kept a hard core of supporters.
The winning of the Football League Championship in 2010 and the elevation of the Seasiders to the premiership brought supporters out in their thousands. One only had to see the crowd lining the promenade when the Ian Holloway and his team returned to see the pride that this event put into the town.
This award recognises the contribution of the football club in raising this town’s status in the eyes of millions across the whole country.
We all know the Football Club, but how many of us are aware of the Blackpool Football Club Community Trust? The trust has worked tirelessly and quietly for the past 25 years to improve the lives of people of all ages, working with schools and community groups and using its links to the football club to inspire and encourage others.
It does this through an extensive programme which includes partnerships with the Princes Trust, its schools and half term programmes and through a wider social inclusion programme that amongst other things seeks to reduce isolation in the over 50’s.
Now that the club has regained premier league status more funding for this work will be available. This award recognises this huge investment in people and the kindness of the staff and players at the club, who give their time to working with all these groups and more.
Special Award presented by Mayor, Cllr Don Clapham
Plaque: Jimmy Armfield CBE
Glass: Rev Michael Ward
Glass: Roger Reade & Derek Spence
Jimmy Armfield made a very interesting, impromptu speech which was well received.
Princes Trust with Jason Euell.
Thanks to Andy Mitchell for reading out the citations which were so ably written for us by Carl Carrington.
Grateful isn’t a big word. But in these depressing times we may not think it but we do have a lot for which to be grateful.
- We are grateful to Carl & Andy for their assistance
- We are particularly grateful to our sponsors without whom we could not have managed
- To the Council for treating us with respect and not forcing Blackpool Civic trust to be a pressure group rather than a partner.
- To all you architects, designers and builders who are working to regenerate Blackpool
- To the fact that we have a great seaside heritage to pass on to the tourists
- To all our members and friends who are so passionately proud of our town
- And to everyone who has supported us in any way if only by being here this evening.
Thank you all!
The Mayor, Cllr Don Clapham, made a closing speech.
Carl Carrington Blackpool’s Built Heritage Manager produced the PowerPoint presentation used on the night. We are grateful to Carl for not only this help but for all the help and support he gives us throughout the year.
Photographs of the event by Abby Waylett, Blackpool 6th Form College.
Thanks to Flower Design of St Annes for the flowers.
Blackpool Civic Trust Awards for 2011
Held on Wednesday 25th January 2012 in the Spanish Hall, Blackpool Winter Gardens.
Introduction
Blackpool Civic Trust held their annual award ceremony in the Winter Gardens with a dinner and guest speaker.
This year was different from the past ceremonies as we moved from St John’s Conference Centre across the road to the Winter Gardens. This was due to increasing numbers attending each year and this year we had a nationally famous celebrity speaker, Mr Griff Rhys Jones, who as President of the Civic Voice is a focal point in the national civic societies.
Also attending were our own Patron, Jimmy Armfield CBE, several councillors, including council leader Simon Blackburn, and Civic Trust and Civic Voice members. A special vote of thanks was given to Carl Carrington, Blackpool Council’s Built Heritage Manager for his support through the year and to the event.
Andy Mitchell, member of Blackpool Civic Trust, the News Editor and presenter at Radio Wave, was MC for the evening.
Griff Rhys Jones presented the awards and was guest speaker.
AWARDS
The award categories included design and construction excellence, environmental and community projects.
Environmental Shields
The Environmental shields were bought to commemorate the Queen’s Jubilee in 2002. Blackpool Civic Trust is a member of BEAT Ltd – the Blackpool Environmental Action Team – so each year these shields are presented to schools who helped or protected the environment.
The Junior Environmental Shield: Hawes Side Primary School.
Maisha Nurulmomin, William Heap, Cara Berry, Luke Livesey, Lee Black and Sophie Taylor came to the stage to collect the award.
The Children played a key role in implementing year on year cuts in energy consumption leading to a 30% reduction in energy bills, a 25 % reduction in waste and substantial increases in recycling. Also creating a sensory garden, allotments and the planting of more than 500 trees – achieving Green Flag status.
Also to note, they are organising and advertising the Blackpool Schools first Sustainability Conference. This will be held at Palatine High School in June.
The Senior School Shield: Bispham High School & Arts College for an outstanding and inspirational Eco-Project.
Charlotte Bendall-Dixon, Holly Bendall-Dixon, Kay Mack-Thomson, Jake Rickwood and Richard Papper collected the award.
The project began with an analysis of the school’s energy consumption and resulted in a campaign of awareness through posters and information throughout the school about energy saving and recycling. In addition, the project team identified an underdeveloped area of land in the school and created a diverse, well planned Eco-Garden.
The Blackpool Environment Action Team Ltd Award for 2011 with Councillor Val Haynes, the Chairman of BEAT, Len Curtis MBE and other board members in attendance.
The BEAT award for 2011 goes to Maureen Horn representing the Chepstow Gardens Community Group.
For over 15 years Maureen Horn has been working with the community in Grange Park to improve standards of lifestyle and encourage healthy eating. In 2007 this work was given a boost through the support of Blackpool Council and Reassurance Plus with a grant of land for the creation of a community garden. The dream came closer later that year when Maureen won funding from the Conservative Party from their Lasting Legacy fund.
The local community helped clear the land and very quickly the eco-dome went up on the site which was opened by William Hague MP in October 2007. Since then the garden has continued to evolve and grow through Maureen’s tireless dedication. The garden now has landscaped areas, flower beds, fruit and vegetable plots and a memorial garden.
This year another award has been added to the list which the Blackpool Civic Trust is pleased to be presenting, This time on behalf of Blackpool Council.
This is the Blackpool Council Conservation Award and is being given to Melanie Oliver of North Western Therapies for restoration work to Springfield Road former Methodist Church.
When North Western Therapies took over the former Springfield Road Methodist Church, the building was in poor condition. One of its biggest problems was severely eroded brickwork which was unsightly and was creating problems with damp.
Enter stage left North Western Therapies. Almost all of the external brick skin of the building was completely replaced. This award recognises the forward looking attitude shown by North Western Therapies and the landlord of the building in dealing with an unlisted building in this way. It also recognises the superb quality of the work carried out by the contractor and the contribution this has made to the continued and future use of the building.
The Community Award presented by the Blackpool Civic Trust goes to the Bostonway Residents Social Club.
Janine Feeney and Amanda Jones collected the award.
The Bostonway Residents Social Club is a great example of what makes residents associations so special. Its members are all actively involved in supporting each other, particularly through hardship and illness.
Bostonway was nominated by Councillor, Val Haines who is the local elected member for the community. She says “This is a community area that I am very proud of. The residents really do care and look out for each other in so many ways. For example if someone is ill or in hospital, the others will always make sure there are visitors and a helping hand when it’s needed. In addition, regular social activity like Bingo often involves residents from surrounding areas”.
This award recognises the inclusive, supportive and very much active community spirit within the Club. Well done to all of those involved.
With the sea as a border on one side and Fylde and Wyre surrounding us we have to protect the bits of greenery we have left. For this reason we have an annual Open Spaces Award.
This year the Open Spaces award goes to the North Blackpool Pond Trail
Pauline Taylor of Groundwork, Mike Sutcliffe from BEAT Naturewatch and Jenna Trewartha from the Blackpool Council Park Ranger Service collected the awards.
This is another superb example of a project coming from the heart of the local community.
Over a period of years local residents and members of local nature groups became increasingly concerned about the condition of a number of ponds and habitats between Hoylake Avenue and Kincraig Lake. This area contains a high concentration of ponds and other green spaces of significant local value and four Biological Heritage Sites..
In 2009 a substantial grant was received from Natural England to make the necessary improvements and raise awareness of the significance of the ponds, their scientific and local amenity value.
This award recognises almost 10 years of campaigning and 2 years of hard work by a range of groups including the local community, BEAT Naturewatch, Groundwork and Natural England. It also recognises how the project has highlighted the biodiversity of Blackpool’s green spaces in a creative way that benefits the whole community.
Best Building Awards
The next five awards are chosen by a panel of judges who are:
- Malcolm Hankey is the Managing Director of the Civic Trust Awards and is well known within Civic Society circles.
- Clare Johnson from the Blackpool Council Planning Office.
- Matthew Jones, who is currently studying at the Blackpool Sixth Form College.
- Bob Taziker, the Blackpool Civic Trust Planning officer.
- Alistair Baines from Cassidy & Ashton Architects of Preston & Chester.
There are a number of excellent nominees so we will only be showing winners in the next categories.
Best Shop Front – This goes to Pizza Express on Church Street.
Toni Rizzuto Manager of Pizza Express Blackpool and designer Jonathan Griffiths received the award.
The creative way in which the designer has used the original, simple form of the building to create a clear, branded offer has been hugely successful. Subdued external treatments with bold monochrome logos make the most of the blank faces of the building whilst large restaurant windows create a striking contrast displaying the bright, colourful interior drawing the eye inside.
The fact that the panoramic windows of the restaurant allow everyone to see in, means that the shop front is partly inside as well. The fantastic murals created from images of the promenade give the restaurant a bespoke feel and the children’s area – where yes, children can make pizza bases, is a great draw for families.
This award recognises the bold design of the restaurant and its local feel and flavour. It also recognises the wide appeal of the brand and its family friendly policies – and pizza bases!
Best Night Time Economy is the Sands Venue on Central Promenade.
The architect Sands General Manager Lee Dumbrill, and contractor Ian Murray received the award.
The re-introduction to Blackpool of the tradition of dining and dancing in a classic nightclub environment is fundamental change to the night-time economy in Blackpool.
Owners Peter and Karen Swann both have a passion for music and the programming in the venue reflects this. The quality of this refurbished venue is outstanding. With upper and lower areas to the restaurant, a la carte and table d’hote menu’s, a fantastic view from the panoramic upstairs bar and a variety of themed shows it delivers a high quality all round experience that will appeal to visitors and locals alike.
This award recognises the commitment shown by Peter and Karen Swann to investing in Blackpool at a difficult time and in bringing a quality new offer to the town. It also recognises the particular contribution of this type of offer to Blackpool’s night time economy.
Next we have the Award for the Best Building Refurbishment. This goes to the Blackpool Central Library.
Cllr Graham Cain, Council Cabinet Member for Tourism & Culture, Adam Strudwick of the Architects Bissett Adams and Duncan Worsley and Joe Moxham for contractors Carefoot PLC collected the award.
Re-inventing an Edwardian library is no mean feat, but it’s one which Blackpool Library Service took on with relish and the results are really quite remarkable.
Photo courtesy of Rainbow Glass.
The results have transformed the experience of library users from the minute they walk through the door. Gone are the darker colours and dense shelving replaced by a light, bright contemporary interior which fits well within the listed building. Upstairs there are more flexible spaces for community use, messy artist’s space and a refurbished local history section.
One of the great glories of the building though are the windows. Huge arches of pictorial stained and painted glass inspired by themes set by local residents they add splashes of colour to the walls. The inclusion of a cafe space is another welcome addition as is increased accessibility through ingeniously placed ramps and improved lift system
This award recognises a clever, high quality and creative yet sensitive transformation of a grade II listed building. The architects, the staff and community stakeholders who worked with the team throughout are to be commended for their vision and commitment to delivering a library fit for the 21st Century.
The Best Public Realm Award goes to the Comedy Carpet on Central Promenade
Cllr Graham Cain accompanied by Gordon Young from Comedy Carpet Ltd and Graphic Designer Andy Altman collected the award.
A fantastic piece of public art on an incredible scale, the Comedy Carpet captures the essence of fun and the long tradition of comedy in Blackpool. The roll call of comedians is huge and features names like Arthur Askey, Morecambe and Wise, Les Dawson, Frankie Howerd and even Griff Rhys Jones!
Made of thousands of individual letters cut from granite and precisely set in panels, this bright new addition to the promenade enhances the festival headland, directly to the seaward side of Blackpool Tower. One of the joys of the work is that it can be experienced in different ways dependent on where you view it from, either at ground level or from the top of the tower.
This award recognises the quality, technical excellence, relevance and iconic nature of the work. It also recognises the Council’s commitment to improving the promenade in such a creative and entertaining way.
Next we have the best New Build.
The range of projects submitted in the category for Best New Build was huge and many hard choices had to be made by the judges. However, they couldn’t decide between the two finalists. Both buildings are very different – one is very big, one is very small but each were clearly winners for very different reasons.
It was decided that it would only be fair to make them joint winners. So tonight we are pleased to announce that both buildings will receive the award for Best New Build 2011.
The first New Build Award goes to Sainsbury’s Store on Whitegate Drive
Peter Whitehead,the developer, and Mike Greenwood, Andrew Mitchell and Adam Pridgeon of Radcliffe Groves Partnership.
When a serious fire destroyed the iconic Belle Vue Garage on Whitegate Drive, many people thought that this was the end of the road for what had been a classic piece of Art Deco motoring heritage in Blackpool.
The new Sainsbury’s Local store that was built on the site was designed to reflect the curved, breakfront lines of the 1930’s garage canopy and whilst definitely contemporary, has a real feel of the original.
This award recognises the willingness of the developer to work to a design echoing the former garage building and it recognises the tenacity of planners in holding out for a solution reflecting the history of the site. It represents the best in what can be achieved through pre-application processes and positive negotiation.
Our second winner is Moor Park Health & Leisure Centre
Phil Lilley of LSP Developments Ltd, Jim Hart architect of West Hart Partnerships and Terry Hazelhurst of Pochin Construction Ltd collected the award.
Long awaited by its local community, the Moor Park Health and Leisure Centre has delivered real change to how community services are delivered in and around Moor Park. The new centre contains a revitalised health and leisure offer, a library, health centre, cafe and pharmacy all under one roof.
When considering the best new build category, judges normally make decisions based only on design and build quality. However, the reason for the inclusion of Moor Park Health and Leisure Centre was based also on the wide ranging improvement of community facilities to the local area and positive feedback from the local community.
This award recognises the strength of local partnerships that allowed the delivery of such a wide range of services and providers in one location. It also recognises the commitment of the partners to making sure that provision is of the highest quality and reflects local needs and requirements.
Once again the winner of this next Award has been selected by the Blackpool Civic Trust Executive Committee.
This evening has shown just how much Blackpool is being transformed. This next project has been one of the most important developments for the resort in recent years and one that’s been an instant hit with everyone.
The Transforming Blackpool Award goes to Merlin Entertainments Group Ltd for the re-invention of Blackpool Tower
Kate Shane & Kenny Mew of Merlin Entertainments Group Ltd collected the award.
When Blackpool Council signed a deal with Merlin to operate Blackpool Tower, nobody could have imagined the amazing transformation that the partnership would deliver.
There were sad losses along the way, the aquarium being the most notable, but the range of amazing new attractions that have replaced them – Blackpool Tower Eye, 4D Cinema and The Blackpool Dungeon – are already proving themselves worthy replacements.
But that’s not all. Merlin’s commitment to the public ownership model means that anyone can walk through the doors sneak a peek at the Ballroom and use the cafes and indoor facilities all for free!
This award recognises Merlin’s vision in its commitment to Blackpool and for delivering real and positive change within one of Britain’s most iconic listed buildings. It also marks the beginning of a journey rather than the end, with plans to restore the Promenade frontage starting this year.
Our last award is a special one. This award has no specific category and is awarded to projects, people or initiatives who show commitment to Blackpool and its people.
2011 has been a difficult year for everyone. Blackpool is lucky to have a range of amazing attractions that seem to be bucking the trend.
The oldest and biggest of these is the family owned and run:
Blackpool Pleasure Beach receive the Special Award for 2011
David Cam, Director and Company Secretary at Blackpool Pleasure Beach & Robert Owen, Director of Marketing, Sales and PR collected the award.
The history of the Pleasure Beach, like that of the Tower, is to some degree the history of Blackpool. The constant need to change and develop to meet the tastes of each generation define all of the great Blackpool attractions. Those that cannot or will not change disappear, but those with the experience to bend with the wind of change survive.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach is one of those businesses. Major investments in recent years include the Big Blue Hotel, Infusion, a major new ride and most recently Nickelodeon Land. This latest investment includes 12 new rides for younger children in a special Nickleodeon themed area of the park.
This award recognises the continuing investment of Blackpool Pleasure Beach in one of the key business offers that define the town as a resort. It also recognises the Pleasure Beach’s Commitment to families with younger children and the inclusion of an international brand to the park’s offer.
And how often does anyone get to announce an award for Spongebob Squarepants!?
Cllr Norman & Mrs Barbara Hardy Rose bowl award
One Award is not given this evening. That is the Cllr Norman & Mrs Barbara Hardy Rose bowl. Each Councillor is asked to nominate a street in his or her ward. All these streets are then judged by us and the presentation is made to the winners at our Civic Day Street Party on 23rd June.
Elaine Smith thanked all those involved and gave flowers to the Mayor, Councillor Joan Greenhalgh. Carl Carrington gave flowers to Elaine Smith.
The group then went for a dinner with a speech from Griff Rhys Jones and a vote of thanks from Councillor Simon Blackburn.
Photo of Elaine Smith, Chairman of Blackpool Civic Trust with Griff Rhys Jones.
Sponsors
We are very grateful to FOUR of our previous award winners who all agreed to sponsor us this evening.
Firstly, we have a new sponsor this year – Cassidy & Ashton architects of Preston and Chester.
Then we have my family who won an award for the Number One Hotels in 2007 for a massive refurbishment.
Next we have Eclipse Developments UK Ltd, building contractors who are previous award winners.
Lastly, but by no means least, F. Parkinson Builders Ltd.
They have been associated with our awards ceremonies since the beginning. They have mainly been here as winners but like Eclipse & Number One Hotels they have sponsored us for the past three years.
It is the generosity of these four firms that has helped us so much this evening and we are very, very grateful to them all.
Event photographs were taken by Juliette Gregson of Blackpool Ghosts Photography who is our official photographer, unless marked otherwise.
Photographs of the event
Jimmy Armfield OBE, Patron of Blackpool Civic Trust and Blackpool football legend meets the children of Hawes Side Primary School.
Barry Shaw, President of Blackpool Civic Trust
Griff Rhys Jones, President of Civic Voice, celebrity, guest speaker and presenter of the awards
Elaine Smith, Chairman of Blackpool Civic Trust
Andy Mitchell, Radio Wave presenter and MC for the event
Bispham High
Blackpool Winter Gardens
Photographs at the ceremony by Juliette Gregson, Blackpool Ghosts Photography unless marked otherwise.
Blackpool Civic Trust Awards for 2012
Held on Thursday 28th February 2013 in the Spanish Hall, Blackpool Winter Gardens.
The event was run by – left to right. Master of Ceremonies; Andy Mitchell of Radio Wave. Award announcement and host; Elaine Smith MBE, Chairman of Blackpool Civic Trust. Award presentation; Jimmy Armfield CBE, Trustee of Blackpool Civic Trust.
Introduction
Blackpool Civic Trust held their annual award ceremony in the Winter Gardens with a dinner.
Present were Mayor and Mayoress of Blackpool, Blackpool’s Members of Parliament – Mr Gordon Marsden and Mr Paul Maynard and the Chief Executive of Blackpool Council, Mr Neil Jack.
Also the Trustees of Blackpool Civic Trust, Mr Jimmy Armfield CBE, and Mr David Cam of the Pleasure Beach is representing our other trustee, Mrs Amanda Thompson.
Two trustees of Civic Voice, Mr Paul Clarke, who is also a member of Todmorden Civic Society and Cheltenham Civic Society. Also Mr John Kershaw who is also Chairman of Manchester Civic Society.
Also, Mrs Marion Coupe, Chairman of Lytham St Annes Civic Society. Andy Mitchell of Radio Wave is MC for the evening and Carl Carrington of Blackpool Council created the presentation.
AWARDS
The award categories included design and construction excellence, environmental and community projects. This year they were presented by Jimmy Armfield CBE.
Environmental Shields
The Environmental shields are new this year and were bought to commemorate the Queen’s Jubilee in 2012.
Blackpool Civic Trust is a member of BEAT Ltd – the Blackpool Environmental Action Team – so each year these shields are presented to schools who helped or protected the environment.
The Junior Environmental Shield: Boundary Primary School.
Boundary is a shining of example of how schools can involve whole families in eco projects, and make a difference through fun but practical activities.
The most significant aspect of this work has been the planting of a fruit orchard and the Greenlands vegetable garden, a facility which grows enough fruit and vegetables to sell to parents.
This facility also supplies the Grow It Cook It Eat it programme, which involves children and parents in learning how to plan and cook healthy meals with fresh ingredients – including eggs from the school’s hens!
But that’s not all. In line with other schools in Blackpool and spearheaded by their Eco Warriors, Boundary have been implementing a range of recycling and energy conservation routines that have significantly reduced the School’s carbon footprint.
The School was awarded Green Flag status in July 2012 in recognition of the children’s hard work and their own increased understanding of environmental issues. Well done and keep up the good work!
The Senior School Shield: Blackpool Sixth Form College.
In the past year students belonging to the Eco Action and Sustainability Groups at the Blackpool Sixth Form College have undertaken a wide range of environmental activities.
Energy efficiency and waste-cutting projects in college, spearheaded by students have cut the college’s carbon footprint by 10% per square metre and paper usage has been reduced by 24%.
Promoting and protecting local and international biodiversity has also been a key theme. Students have carried out conservation work on the nearby North Blackpool Pond Trail (one of last years winners) and have campaigned locally to help save precious wildlife around the world. As part of this the group organised and ran a successful ‘Go Green Week’, featuring its mascot, Mickey the Mountain Gorilla.
In October 2012, Blackpool Sixth became one of only a handful of sixth forms in the country to be awarded the coveted Eco Schools Green Flag award. They say they’re looking forward to making 2013 an even greener year for the college and local community.
Students with members of staff Jon McLeod and Louise Logan.
The BEAT award for 2011 goes to Her Majesty’s Prison, Kirkham
Before:
After:
Her Majesty’s Prison Kirkham has been involved in a wide number of projects in partnership with Blackpool Council and BEAT limited.
Springing from a long standing relationship with Donna’s Dream House, the Partnership with BEAT has seen improvements to parks and public buildings across the borough. One of these projects saw substantial improvements to the Rose Garden at Crossland Road Park, where flowers and bulbs were planted, lawns re-seeded and pathways re-laid.
In another project last year, the Stanley Park Visitor Centre was completely re-decorated in preparation for a year of exhibitions and other activities.
The programme provides offenders with real work experience as a key step in settling back into society and the organisers can be justifiably proud of a developing partnership that’s set to offer a mobile workforce to community projects across the Fylde.
A great Partnership, great projects and a positive force in helping the local community and allowing offenders to repay a debt to society.
Governor of Kirkham Prison, Graham Beck receives the award.
This is the Blackpool Council Conservation Award and is being given to Maysand Ltd.
This award was conceived as a way to recognise craftsmanship in traditional building skills and the winner this year has been involved in a number of projects across the town over the last three years.
Maysand are a specialist masonry restoration firm dealing with brickwork, architectural terracotta and faience. Their expertise and skills were invaluable in restoring the Grade II beach lift which required a range of skills the Council were struggling to find with other contractors, particularly brick and faience repair.
The difficulties were compounded by high level working in an exposed location on the promenade but the work went without a hitch and now the roof, faience window surrounds and brickwork have all been restored to an exceptionally high standard.
This award is given not only for their work to the Beach Lift at Warbreck, but also for the superb work undertaken in restoring the faience in the Floral Hall at Blackpool Winter Gardens. As we speak they’re working on the installation of the new plinths for the Stanley Park Lions.
Bryn Lisle receives the award.
The Community Award presented by the Blackpool Civic Trust goes to Homes 4 Us and Aunty Social
A HOME 4 US
This particular project stood out from other nomoinees not just because it’s been so successful, but also because it’s provided so much inspiration for children and young people.
With its objective of engaging with vulnerable or hard to reach children and young people, often disengaged from mainstream education or leisure activities, the project has filled a critical need within the community.
The provision of support for families through drop in advice, inter-generational activities and day care has had a positive impact on the children and families concerned and has been particularly successful in helping young people improve interaction with others through working alongside community events and on projects of their own.
The really positive thing about the project is that it’s community led, with a range of volunteers aged 17 to 70, it demonstrates a commitment in the local community to helping others in need, a fantastic example of a sustainable social project by community, for community!
Linda Gray and Andrea Clowes collect the Award on behalf of the Homes 4 Us team
AUNTY SOCIAL
We see many community groups in our quest to find the best but rarely do we find one as quirky as Aunty Social. Want a knitted bike?? Fancy a pair of life size crocheted reindeer? Meet Aunty Social
The group was set up two years ago in attempt to bring together like minded individuals to promote community arts and craft activities and as something of a support group for other community organisations. On offer are activities as diverse as group knitting, social media training and pop up cinema, all responding to what the public felt they wanted in their area, but weren’t able to access.
At the heart of its mission was the idea that people, sometimes from vulnerable backgrounds, wanted safe, friendly environments where they could meet new friends and have ago at different activities. Many activities are aimed at those who struggle to get out and meet others or who are new to the area. But here’s the good bit… there’s always tea and cake.
Catherine Mugonyi, Louise Ashcroft, Rob Gomm, Duncan Hodgson, Vicky Ellis.
This year the Open Spaces award goes to St Stephen on the Cliffs
In 2009 United Utilities began a flood relief project in North Shore. During the work, which lasted almost 2 years, the gardens at St Stephen’s Church were turned into a giant excavation. Up to that point the grounds were in a pretty poor state anyway but when they’d finished, United Utilities left the grounds as a ‘blank canvas.’
The Church community were determined to make a fresh start on the grounds, and equally determined to involve the whole community. New grass was laid, borders, spring bulbs and flower beds planted by young and old alike.
By way of compensation for the disruption to the church, United Utilities gave some money for an artwork project for the grounds. The Church commissioned Manchester Artist Bernadette Hughes to create a new mosaic to be made with the theme ‘St Stephen’ at its heart.
A small group visited local schools and community organisations over a 12 month period working on the theme and out of this came a beautiful new mosaic design. Over 200 local people were involved in making this happen and now the grounds have been transformed from an ugly wilderness to an attractive open space.
Carol Vance who now maintains the area receives the award.
Special Award
Tonight we are doing something we have never done before.We are giving an extra special award to two of our members who went that extra mile to organise this event and make it such a success – Betty & Danny Bradford.
As you can see this is a total shock to Betty & Danny. Their home last year was taken over completely by the scarecrows – a bit like something from Dr Who! Betty organised a weekly meeting of members who have worked unceasingly to make last year into such a huge success.
We are delighted that the Council was pleased with the Scarecrow Festival and asked us to hold it again in 2013.
They also kindly came to our aid and found storage for the scarecrows as each new one is made but this still hasn’t stopped Betty & Danny’s home becoming a work shop!
This year’s Festival will again be in the Salisbury Woodland from Friday 14th June to Sunday 16thand if any of you here would like to be part of this by providing a scarecrow just have a word with either Betty or Danny afterwards.
Sponsors
We have a new sponsor this year – Eric Wright Group Ltd.
We have Cassidy & Ashton architects of Preston and Chester who joined our sponsors last year.
Then we the Number One Hotels in 2007 for a massive refurbishment.
Next we have Eclipse Developments UK Ltd, building contractors who are also previous award winners.
Lastly, but by no means least, F. Parkinson Builders Ltd.They have been associated with our awards ceremonies since the beginning. They have mainly been here as winners but like Eclipse & Number One Hotels they have sponsored us for the past four years.
It is the generosity of these five firms that has helped us so much this evening and we are very, very grateful to them all – particularly in this present economic climate.
Best Building Awards
The judges.
This year we had a judge from the Fylde Planning Office, Diane Kirkpatrick, who kindly stepped in at the last minute when one of our usual judges was ill.
Pippa Greenway is from Blackpool Council Planning Office.
We are ‘critical friends’ of the council with the accent mainly on the ‘friends’ (although we do have a few ‘blips’) and we try very hard to work together as Pippa (and all Council staff who help and support us) have kindly proved. As well as being non-sectarian we are also non-political and they will tell you we will fall out with any of them – no matter which party – if we don’t think they are doing their best for our fantastic town!
Because the buildings of today are the future heritage for our children and grandchildren we always have a junior judge on our panel and this year George Brandon, who is currently studying at the Blackpool Sixth Form College, has performed the honour for us.Unfortunately George couldn’t be with us this evening.
We did have someone from our own committee, Bob Taziker, the Blackpool Civic Trust Planning officer on the panel of judges. I must re-iterate that like the rest of them Bob had no knowledge of the names of the builders, architects, etc. as they were just judging the buildings on their own merit.
And lastly we have Alistair Baines from Cassidy & Ashton Architects of Preston & Chester. Alistair has in the past won awards from us so he finds it interesting to see it from the other side.
We thank all these people for giving up their time.
It would take too long to show all the excellent nominees so we will only be showing winners in the categories.
Best Shop Front – This goes to Abingdon Street Market
Proper markets are at the heart of any community both as a source of fresh food and just about anything else.
Blackpool’s Abingdon Street Market is no different on that score, but where else will you find a market that incorporates parts of a cobble built Victorian police station? The Market began its life as a development of shops and offices built onto the front of Blackpool’s first police station in the 1890’s but in the early 1930’s the buildings behind the main block were partly demolished to build the market hall.
The owners, Town Centre Securities, had been gradually dealing with major issues like the repair of the superb Belfast Truss Roof to the Market Hall but were struggling to justify the investment to non essential areas like the main entrances until Blackpool Council encouraged them to seek a Townscape Heritage Initiative grant.
The frontage has now been restored pretty much to what it would have looked like in the 1890’s and in the process of restoring the main entrance arch; the old stone Police Station sign was uncovered. This development is an excellent example of sensitive streetscape restoration and how it can bring new life to a building. The quality of the work is exceptional and the market tenants are delighted with their new shop window.
David Donkin from Town Centre Securities PLC owner of the Market, Rob Knighton of Eclipse Development UK Ltd and Carl Carringtonfrom Blackpool Council.
Best Night Time Economy is the Viva Cabaret Bar
Blackpool is well known for its vibrant live music and entertainment scene, and here to thrill locals and visitors alike is a brand new, glittering addition to the promenade.
Viva Blackpool is the latest in a series of quality live entertainment venues in the town and it’s set to give the others a serious run for their money.
What struck the judges most about the venue though was the amount of work that had been done by the VIVA team themselves. To keep costs to a minimum, the former bingo venue was refurbished entirely by the staff and their friends, an incredible achievement and one of which they should all be justly proud.
This award recognises not only the addition of another quality entertainment venue to the town’s night-time economy, but also the vision and dedication of Leye D Johns, Martin Heywood and the team in making it all happen. Viva, Viva Blackpool!
Managing Director Martin Heywood & Leye D Johns receive the award
Next we have the Award for the Best Building Refurbishment. This goes to the the old Bispham Library now known as the Langdale Centre
The Old Bispham Library is local landmark within its community and when the PCT decided to pull out of the building there were many who were concerned for its future. In a brilliant exercise in the re-use of a historic building, the old library was transformed by Blackpool Council into a sensory activity space for adults with severe learning difficulties.
With a dark room boasting state of the art interactive projections and a wide range of activity and educational spaces, the building has been a boost to the provision of social care for adults with special educational needs.
Alongside the contemporary extension to the rear of the building – clad in iridescent green steel, the original historic features on the outside have been restored and retained, including the entrance lamps and the distinctive roofline and copper lantern.
The conversion has been so successful because the new work has been blended with old so well; the scale and colouring of the new section complementing the quirky Art Deco of the old.
Carl Baker on behalf of Blackpool Council with Richard Turpin from the Eric Wright Group and Alistair Baines from Cassidy & Ashton Architects.
The New Build Award goes to The Oracle
Have you ever wondered what the big, bright orange building next door to Palatine Sports College was?
Well it’s a brilliant new facility for young people, which was designed in consultation with young people, to make sure that their views were included right from the very start. Keeping true to that principle, it’s been named ‘The Oracle’, following a competition where youngsters aged 11 to 24 were asked to give their ideas for what the building should be called.
With recreational space, employment and skills development opportunities and a wide range of activities including those with an Arts & Music focus, the building has filled a gap in provision for young peoples activities in the town.
The design is bold, contemporary and feels very Blackpool, with a range of bright interior spaces and some fantastic artwork. But most of all it demonstrates that community led design can be hugely successful, particularly when in involves the people who will use the building!
Architect Matt Hill,Guy Parker & Darren Lee from Conlon Construction Ltd and Cllr Chris Maughan representing Blackpool Council
Once again the winner of this next Award has been selected by the Blackpool Civic Trust Executive Committee.
This evening has shown just how much Blackpool is being transformed. This next project has been one of the most important developments for the resort in recent years and one that’s been an instant hit with everyone.
The Transforming Blackpool Award goes to Blackpool Football Club Hotel
Hotels are important in Blackpool and quality hotels even more so. In looking at providing a hotel on the Bloomfield Road site, the owners of Blackpool Football Club could have chosen something more basic along the budget line, but instead they bit the bullet and created something quirky, very Blackpool and pretty stylish too
The most unusual feature of the hotel is that that half of the rooms actually overlook the pitch unfortunately, you can’t watch the match from your bed – FA rules forbid it – but it provides a pretty spectacular backdrop, football fan or not.
This aside, the quality of design in the rooms and public spaces have set the hotel apart from the competition. Add to this the excellent restaurant facilities at Rowley’s and above all the superb service and you’ve got a winning combination.From the Blackpool FC football memorabilia on the walls, to the comfortable bar and reception, the welcome is very much a Blackpool one!
Sam Oyston the General Manager of the hotel and his PA Lesley Winterbottom collect the award.
Each year we look for something outstanding and special to reward but this year we didn’t have to look far. 2012 was very special year as it was the 100th Anniversary of the Blackpool Illuminations so the Blackpool Civic Trust Special Achievement Award for 2012 goes to the Illuminations Dept.
Blackpool Council Illuminations Department receive the Special Award for 2012
2012 saw the centenary of the Greatest Light Show on Earth; a seaside fairyland of scenic designs and illuminated wonders known nationally as Blackpool Illuminations, but to us locals as ‘the lights’.
The first decorative lights went in as part of the decorative scheme celebrating the visit of Princess Louise in 1912 and the rest, as they say, is history.
Today the lights comprise more than four hundred thousand lamps of various types, more than seventy miles of cable stretched over five and a half miles of seafront and specially commissioned features including the worlds largest mirror ball. Random beauty, excess bling its what Blackpool’s all about.
This award recognises the Illuminations department and everything they’ve achieved in the run up to the Centenary Year. Their hard work, dedication and determination to deliver a successful centenary show paid off and last year we saw a host of new tableaux and features including the full lighting of Blackpool tower – legs and all!
Richard Ryan and his team & Cllr Graham Cain the Portfolio Holder for Tourism & Culture
Photographs of the event
The Spanish Hall and guests
Andy Mitchell, Elaine Smith and Jimmy Armfield
Photographs of the event by Peter Owen, Creative Photography, Warton.
Photos of previous events.
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