The Civic Design Awards first started in 1984 and were established to recognise the contribution of new buildings, or alterations to existing buildings within the Borough of Bournemouth.

There are two categories – large scheme and small scheme – to ensure that big developments do not win at the expense of smaller developments of equal merit.  There have also been other categories over the years.  In 1989 a Conversion Award was introduced, for buildings being converted to residential use.

The aim of the Civic Design Award is to encourage excellence from the development industry and to raise public awareness of building work within the Borough.  This can range from the erection of completely new buildings (large hospitals to small garages), extensions to or renovations of existing buildings or, landscape schemes such as the layout of gardens or a car park.

The winners of the award receive a Certificate of Merit and plaques are presented to them to be displayed on the buildings.  The frequency that the awards are held is dependent on the level and quality of schemes which are completed within the Borough.  This ensures that there are a suitable number of entrants with a wide range of schemes.  The nominated schemes have to have been completed during the period since the last Award and the proposed date of the next. 

How can you become involved?

Members of the public, architects, builders or planners are invited to nominate any schemes that appeal to them.  If you have any buildings you would like to put forward for consideration please contact Michael Stead of the Conservation Section.

Past Awards

Please click here to view Past Awards.