Loughborough Basin Commended At Design Awards

15 December 2008

Loughborough Canal Basin has received a commendation in the newly introduced Townscape category of the 2008 Charnwood Design Awards.

Describing the development as ‘a striking and colourful addition to Loughborough’s townscape’, the judges recognised the development for improving public access to the waterside, creating an attractive public space around the basin, and enhancing facilities for canal users.

The Design Awards, held biennially by Charnwood Borough Council, aim to recognise those projects that demonstrate good design, quality and imagination, and that will provide lasting benefit to the Borough. They seek to encourage good practice in the design of new developments, conservation of existing buildings and the use of landscaping around new or existing buildings.

The £13m regeneration of Loughborough Canal Basin, lead by British Waterways (BW) and contractor William Davis Ltd, was officially opened in October 2007. The architects for the buildings were Metz Architects with the public plaza area designed by munro + whitten.

The development, which was started in spring 2006, has seen the creation of a vibrant public area combining expanded water space with a reshaped canal basin to enable better boat access, public plaza, student accommodation, improved boater facilities and bar/restaurant units. The Basin restaurant, which opened in July, is already proving popular and BW is currently working to secure a tenant for a second restaurant/bar unit on site.

Mike Coates, British Waterways Investment & Development Manager said: “We’re very grateful for the recognition of the judging panel and are particularly proud that the commendation came in the townscape category. It was always our intention to create a focal point that would benefit Loughborough by opening up a previously disused part of the town to actively encourage residents, visitors and boaters to enjoy the many benefits of spending time by the water.”

ENDS

For more press information please contact:
Stephen Hardy, 01636 704481 or stephen.hardy@britishwaterways.co.uk

Notes to Editors:
British Waterways cares for a 2,200-mile network of canals and navigable rivers across the country and works with a broad range of public, private and voluntary sector partners to improve the social, economic and environmental benefits of the inland waterways. For more information visit www.britishwaterways.co.uk