The winners of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Planning Awards 2011 have been announced and the Award for Public Realm went to Southend-on-Sea Borough Council for public realm improvements including the City Beach scheme. The result has given Southend a new public transport hub, more public space and a new sense of arrival at the gateway to the town centre. Better public space, improved cycling and walking conditions and shared road surfaces have significantly improved conditions for those using the town.
On the visual side, a high-quali
ty materials palette, reduced street clutter and coordinated street furniture and signage have enhanced the public realm and the quality of life.
The judging panel concluded that sound leadership, good project management and collaborative working between planners, civil engineers and others brought the schemes in on time, within budget and with excellent value for money. Hardscape worked closely with architects Grontmij, London in the supply of Kellen Breccia Grigio and Tagenta C-E paving materials.