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 2009, the Society recognises Bridgwater's VICTORIA PARK COMMUNITY CENTRE as Outstanding Example of Good Architecture and Planning. The Mayor of Bridgwater, Cllr. Graham Granter will be presenting the Bridgwater & District Civic Society's annual Environmental Enhancement Award to the centre at the Society's annual general at 7.30pm on Wednesday 15 April, which will be held in the Activity Room at the centre and open to all.

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. Past awards, for example, have included such projects as the new town housing in Friarn Street and the enhancement works to King Square.

The presentation will not only provide an opportunity to appreciate the excellent facilities at the centre but also to support the Civic Society in encouraging such projects yet at the same time protecting the town's heritage.

For further information contact Peter Braine, Publicity Officer at 01823 451168

left to right: Keith Barnard, for Victoria Park, President BDCS Derek Gibson, Ivor Butt for Victoria Park, The Mayor of Bridgwater, Martin Rawles for Victoria Park, Hon Secretary BDCS Bernice Lashbook, Chairman BDCS Philip Smeed at the Award Ceremony 15 April 2009.

Previous awards in recent years have included:

• 2005: SHAL Housing Ltd for a new building in Castle Moat, Bridgwater, and to Desmond Baker and colleagues for restoration of a pair of derelict Listed Town Houses in Queen Street.
• YMCA building at corner of St. Mary Street and Dampiet Street.
• New town housing fronting Friarn Street.
• Cottages at Moorlynch.
• Enhancement works to King Square.
• External refurbishment of The Palace at Penel Orlieu.
• Cleansing of Office façade at Castle Bailey/Cornhill.
• Family Centre at Sydenham Estate.