Leicester Cathedral’s new extension and the Grand Hotel’s restored shopfronts have received prestigious Leicester Civic Society Awards. Catherine Primary School was also highly commended for its environment and sustainability design.
Leicester Civic Society have recognised these major city projects at its Award Dinner, held at Wygston House on Thursday (26th) night.
Our Heritage Award went to Leicester City Council for its work in restoring the historic shopfronts beneath the Grand Hotel along Granby Street. Funded by Mercure Hotel and the Council with Heritage Action Zone grants, the work has not only restored the historic appearance and character of this landmark building but has proved a catalyst to wider heritage regeneration.
Meanwhile the Leicester Cathedral team won the Society’s ‘Design Award’ for their outstanding new Education and Visitor Centre. The award is intended to celebrate good new design that complements and respects heritage buildings while also demonstrating good modern design.
In the same category, Catherine Primary School was highly commended for its recent development work. Exceptional quality and innovative design has produced a highly environmental, climate resilient building that puts pupils and the planet at its heart.
Commenting on the awards, Leicester Civic Society Chair, Burt McNeill said:
“Our main objective as a society is to champion all that is good about Leicester. These awards shine a spotlight on the sort of work that this great city deserves and should be proud of. We’re celebrating the tremendous effort of these organisations, as well as Leicester’s rich heritage. And just as importantly we’re looking to the future.
I don’t think anyone can argue that the new shopfronts at the Grand have brought some civic pride back into Granby Street, while the new Cathedral extension is a stunning new addition to the city’s architectural quality. With Catherine Primary School, we wanted to reflect that this isn’t just about visual beauty, but also how our buildings can respond to the climate crisis and help heal the planet’s environment.
Too often we’ve seen buildings lost, that could have continued to contribute the city’s architectural and environmental credentials, or new buildings that just do nothing for the city. We want these awards to showcase what can be achieved – with a bit of thought, some civic pride and a genuine vision for the future of Leicester. And we look forward to seeing more projects coming forward in the years ahead.”
Photo: L-R, Justin Webber (Leicester City Council), Burt McNeill (Leicester Civic Society) and Richard Norman (Leicester Cathedral).
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