Community award for care development

Apr 29 2008 by Sue Scott, Evening Gazette

NORTH-EAST architectural firm, Browne Smith Baker and Stockton-based Endeavour Housing Association, have won a prestigious award for a flagship project that has helped to transform a community in the region.

Triumphant Browne Smith Baker (BSB) picked up the regional Community Benefit award at the annual RICS Awards (Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors) for the Aspen Gardens extra care scheme in Hardwick, Stockton.

Last year BSB was honoured with the same award for the development of the £1.35m St Martin’s Centre, in Byker, Newcastle – proving the firm’s importance in regenerating and transforming North-east communities.

The development – which has been named as one of the flagship extra schemes for Endeavour Housing Association - is a key milestone for the area and acts as a gateway to the regeneration of Hardwick.

The multi-million pound housing scheme – which serves the elderly and local community – provides 30 apartments and 20 bungalows and includes a variety of contemporary facilities.

Malcolm Robinson, design director at the Darlington-based Browne Smith Baker and architect behind the Aspen Gardens development, said: “With this scheme we wanted to provide state-of-the-art living, which was still homely for the elderly communities, while providing the best possible facilities and environment.

“I am pleased to say we have achieved that and much more.

“The fact it is being used as a flagship development for similar schemes within the country, and now having won this award, is testament to the hard work put in by all teams involved.”

Aspen Gardens is seen as one of the best holistic services for older people in the country and is the outcome of a great deal of hard-work from a multi-agency team made-up of experts from a number of disciplines.

Aspen Gardens services and facilities manager, Charis Gracie, said: “The building is a fine piece of architecture, but at its foundation are the local people and community that keep it running from day-to-day.

“It provides a bistro, salon, IT suite, galleried landings and cosy lounges; it is at the hub of the community. We are over the moon to win the award and I am proud to have been involved in the development of Aspen Gardens.”

Managing director of Endeavour Housing Association, Angela Lockwood, said: “From the outset we wanted Aspen Gardens to be a building that the local community could be proud of and one which would provide the best possible care.

“Working with Stockton Council and other partners, we feel that we have achieved this and are pleased that these achievements are being recognised.”

Aspen Gardens beat five other hopefuls in the same regional category and was also nominated in the category for regeneration.

In total, BSB was shortlisted for two developments in four categories at the awards. The £12.5m Byron Place retail development at Foundry Road, Seaham, was shortlisted for two awards in the regeneration and commercial categories.