Local projects shortlisted in prestigious RICS Awards
14 March 2024
A number of local projects have been shortlisted among some of the most ambitious building developments in the regional category of the prestigious Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards.
Two Council led initiatives, the Sperrins Sculptural Trail and the Waterside Shared Village projects are among the 13 finalists across five categories, including residential development, community benefit, heritage, public sector and refurbishment-revitalisation. A further project, New Gate Arts and Cultural Centre, was delivered by Council on behalf of The Executive Office Urban Villages initiative and their local funding recipients North West Cultural Partnership. Sean Dolan’s GAC in Creggan also caught the attention of the judges to make the shortlist.
The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, today congratulated all those involved in the projects and wished them well ahead of the final judging. “I am absolutely delighted to see so many local projects gain recognition, among some of the most significant initiatives across the North.
“It is testament to the ambition, talent and vision of Council, along with our community and industry partners, that we continue to strive for and deliver state of the art facilities here in the City and District, despite the challenges. I want to wish all these wonderful projects well ahead of the final judging in April, I look forward to hearing the final result.”
The Sperrins Sculptural Trail is a joint initiative between Derry City and Strabane District Council, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and Mid Ulster District Council with support from DAERA under the Rural Tourism Scheme. The trail consists of three distinct, innovative, and unique yet linked artworks by the internationally renowned artist Thomas Dambo. Visitors are already flocking to the trail since its official opening in July to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of the Sperrins.
The Waterside Shared Village is a state-of-the-art community hub and sports complex located in the interface area between Irish Street and Top of the Hill. The project is supported by the European Union’s PEACE IV Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), with support from the Department for Communities, and the Department of Rural and Community Development, Ireland. The project is led by Council, working in partnership with the Irish Street Youth & Community Association and Hillcrest Community Trust.
The New Gate Arts and Cultural Centre is based in the heart of the Fountain Estate in Derry City Centre. This project is part of the Executive’s Urban Villages Initiative, and the project was managed and overseen by Council with a view to improving good relations outcomes and developing thriving places where there has been a history of deprivation and community tension. The centre is an inclusive shared space for communities to host events and initiatives in a state-of-the-art community facility.
The thirteen projects will be judged by an expert judging panel, which will continue until April. Announcing the shortlisted finalists, Chair of the Northern Ireland RICS Awards judging panel, Michael Hannaway, said: “It is inspiring to see such inspirational projects in Northern Ireland shortlisted for these awards.
"It is a true testament to the dedication of surveying professionals despite challenging times in recent years. I wish all of the projects the best of luck.”
Find out more about the awards at www.rics.org/training-events/rics-awards/uk-awards