Bridgwater and District Civic Society, in its role of encouraging good architecture and planning in our Community of Bridgwater town and its related villages, has made several Awards in recognition of projects undertaken by private individuals, developers, builders and local authorities. These awards take the form of a framed certificate presented at an informal ceremony.
For 2010, the Society recognises Bridgwater's Historic Town Hall as an Outstanding
Example of a good Refurbishment project which enhances the environment.
Founded in 1972 by the then Borough Mayor Irene Tester, the Bridgwater &
District Civic Society aims to promote high standards of planning and
architecture and to preserve features of historic interest.
In accounting the origin of the Society's Environmental Enhancement
Awards, President Derek Gibson referred to the late Neil Widgery who during the
39-45 War flew Sunderland flying boats for the RAF in the Far East, and
following teaching experience was a County Education Officer who attended
Governors' meetings at Bridgwater schools. Living in Puriton with wife
Patricia, they were both members of the Society, and during his time as its
Vice-Chairman he put forward the proposal, duly accepted, that in the absence
of any recognition by the Local Authority, the Society itself should give
recognition to completed projects by individuals, businesses or Authorities
in respect of works of enhancement provided to existing buildings and
places, or for new buildings which made a positive architectural contribution to
the built environment. Neil was a much respected amateur artist, in
sketches or watercolours, such accomplishments being witnessed on the
Award Certificates designed by him which include one of his sketches of the
town centre.
Previous awards in recent years have included: