THREE of Barnsley’s most innovative property projects have been shortlisted for a prestigious industry accolade - including the overall project of the year title.
The annual RICS awards recognise exemplary built projects that are positively contributing to the region and this year 45 schemes of all sizes and budgets from all over Yorkshire and Humber are in with a chance of gaining acclaimed industry recognition, along with the teams behind them.
The restoration and conversion of the Grade II-listed Wombwell Chapel is in the running for two awards (building conservation and community benefit).
The project, led by NPS Barnsley and Sanderson’s Building Services Ltd, involved repointing areas in most need with a lime-based mortar, repairing the traditional slate roof and converting it into a community event space which has been received well by residents.
Before its restoration and conversion, the chapel had been subjected to decades of neglect and vandalism.
Meanwhile a striking family home known as Contour House situated below the village of Hoylandswaine is up for the design through innovation accolade.
With a wildflower blanket green roof to complement the rural surroundings, the property, delivered by AXIS Architecture, Assent Building Control and RSW Building Contractors, is built to the highest sustainable standards, with energy measures including a mechanical ventilation heat recovery system, and a ground source heat pump.
Another housing project in Barnsley is also in the running for an RICS award.
Known as Plot 6, Dodworth, the high standard of design and installation of various eco-friendly technologies including solar panels, an air source heat pump and rainwater harvesting system has raised the bar for the quality of new-builds in the Dodworth area and also acted as a catalyst for further economic development in the village.
The luxurious four bedroom home - delivered by Assent Building Control, Coda Bespoke and Whitshaw Builders Ltd - will compete for the residential award.
All category winners will go on to compete against other regional winners at the national RICS awards final in November for the chance to be crowned the overall UK winner in their respective category.
Chairman of the RICS awards, Yorkshire and Humber judging panel, Rob Hindle said: “Despite ups and downs in the current climate, our region’s property professionals continue to deliver exemplary, and in many cases, world-class built projects that are having a profoundly positive impact on our cities and towns.”
