Solent Quality Place Awards 2022 now open for entries

In addition to highlighting architectural and engineering excellence, the awards seek to recognise developments that contribute to improving the economic, social, cultural and environmental life of those who live, work, learn and relax within the Solent region.

The Solent Quality Place Awards have been run by the Partnership for South Hampshire since 2010, with previous winners including the West Quay South complex in Southampton and the Hot Walls area in Portsmouth.

Cllr Sean Woodward, Chairman of the Partnership for South Hampshire, said: “Architecture and design do not exist in a context-free space. Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and the Solent area are wonderful places to live, and we are looking for projects that enhance the places where they are developed and set the stage for a more fulfilling experience of life, work and play.

“This can include town centre developments, neighbourhood renewal schemes, residential developments and public spaces as well as high quality buildings that make a real difference to people and communities in which they are placed.”

All entries will be judged against the National Design Guide’s ten characteristics of good place making. Whilst there will not be a separate award for sustainability, the response to the pressing issues of climate change will be considered for all entries.

The awards will be made for projects that display a step change in the delivery of quality place-making in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, with one of these being chosen as the most outstanding scheme and receive a Quality Place Judges Award. In addition, there will be an opportunity for the public to vote for their favourite in the People’s Choice Award.

Schemes must have been completed between 28 February 2019 and 27 April 2022, be sited within Hampshire or the Isle of Wight local authority boundaries, and not have been entered previously for a Solent Quality Place Award.

The deadline for entries is Friday, 27 May 2022; further information and the application form can be downloaded at www.solentqualityplaceawards.org.uk/the-launch/