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 Environment Enhancement 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.
2010
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.
2009
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.
Previous Environment Enhancement 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.