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Two RDA projects scoop success at awards

22 June 2009

Two high-profile projects funded by the South West RDA (Regional Development Agency) have scooped top awards at this year's Michelmores-Western Morning News Property Awards.

Okehampton Rural Business Centre beat off tough competition to win the 'Major Project of the Year over £3 million' and The Dartmouth Apprentice at St Barnabus Church picked up the award for 'Heritage Project of the Year'.

Okehampton was nominated by Archial Architects and the South West RDA and heads the list of seven winners announced at a Gala Dinner at St. Mellion International Resort recently.

The Dartmouth Apprentice project involved transforming a church into accommodation for the homeless and a restaurant cafe-bar which helps train disadvantaged people to become chefs and waiters.

Other RDA-funded projects which were highly-commended include Appledore Fish Dock for 'Project of the Year under £3 million' and Okehampton Rural Business Centre highly commended for 'Eco Building of the Year'. Tamar Science Park Phase 4 was runner-up in the 'Major Project of the Year' category.

Ian Thompson, Area Director for Devon and Somerset at the South West RDA said: "It is fantastic news that two RDA-funded projects have been successful and demonstrates a clear commitment to excellence in schemes we support, whether it's in the high-quality regeneration of an historic building like St Barnabas Church or by leading a low-carbon economy with state-of-the-art green technology at Okehampton Rural Business Centre.

"While these awards celebrate the buildings themselves, both projects are also helping to unlock business potential by encouraging enterprise, creating new jobs and contributing towards putting our region in the best possible position for when economic recovery comes."

Michelmores' Director of Client Services, Andrew Maynard, said: "Once again we have been treated to a superb competition with entries of real quality and diversity."

Ends

For more information contact Ryan Martinez, Account Manager, on 01208 77900 or via ryan@dca-pr.co.uk

Notes to editors

1. The South West RDA leads the development of a sustainable economy, investing to unlock the region's business potential. It is helping companies respond to the economic crisis and charts a course for recovery. The RDA is developing or expanding initiatives which include: establishing a Business Loan Fund; coordinating the response to large companies in difficulty; preparing for economic recovery. More information can be found at www.southwestrda.org.uk.

Contact Details

Name: Ryan Martinez
Tel: 01208 77900
Email: ryan@dca-pr.co.uk