The RICS awards showcase the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and environment. This year saw a record number of entries received; the highest number in the history of the awards and the standard of projects was incredibly high.
Not only one, but two Helifix projects were selected for finalist awards from 41 entries in the South West region. “This year left the judges breathless, not just due to the record number of entries but also due to the excellence, best practice and determination to succeed demonstrated by the entrants in a challenging economic climate. We applaud the winners, and we recognise and also applaud the substantial achievements of conservation, innovation, community and well-being evidenced through so many of the entries throughout the South West” commented Mark Robinson, South West Regional Judges Chair.
The ‘Hill Barn’ project was awarded as a finalist for the ‘Building Conservation’ category. Helifix masonry repair techniques were used to retain the 300 year old dilapidated stone barn and the project featured on Channel 4’s Grand Designs. The award honours conversion in all its forms and covers renovation or conversion to new or original use. The judges’ criteria included: the use of traditional materials/techniques; the philosophy behind the repair and conservation; how environmental considerations were incorporated; how architectural features have been conserved; how much of the original material remains and the methods to re-use these materials.
Known as ‘Heartlands’, the Helifix project was also awarded as a finalist for the ‘Community Benefit’ award. The award recognises the defining feature that the project has benefited the community. The centre opened this April and has transformed 7.5 hectares of derelict land, preserving at its centre the historic Grade II* listed Robinson’s Shaft buildings of a former Cornish tin mine. These have been sympathetically restored, using Helifix structural repair systems, and adapted for re-use as focal points within the completed development. Once all the concealed structural repairs and stabilisation had been completed there was little visual evidence of the work that had been undertaken. The fully secure buildings now form a major part of the Heartlands sustainable community and parklands which celebrates local culture, heritage and the natural environment.
Commenting on the awards, Kerry Osmond, Marketing Manager of Helifix said: “The awards are testimony of our dedication to retaining, repairing, preserving and prolonging the life of Britain’s buildings. These buildings form an important part of our country’s national heritage and we are delighted to receive such recognition for our innovative repair products and techniques”.
