Farren launches RICS Built Environment Awards

Dr Seán Farren, Minister of Finance and Personnel, has launched the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Built Environment Awards in Belfast.

Speaking as guest of honour, Dr Farren said: “The economic benefits of good design are demonstrated by quicker, safer and more efficient construction, added value through enhancement of location, and reduced whole-life costs. In short, good design contributes to the well-being of society and generates economic, social and environmental value.”

The Built Environment Award aims to highlight excellence and recognise the range and quality of the work of chartered surveyors and related professions. This is the Institute’s first Northern Ireland award, showcasing the very best in urban and rural regeneration reflecting conservation, regeneration and efficiency in buildings.

Commending this and other prestigious events, which helped to focus the attention of both the construction industry and the wider public on the design quality of the built environment, Dr Farren said: “To acknowledge the very best, enables everyone to recognise just what can be attained.

“The whole of the construction industry – clients, designers and builders can expect increased pressure for better design quality in all projects. The industry, with the RICS to the fore, is responding to meet the new challenges ahead. As a major client of the industry, the public sector is also striving to ensure that it improves its performance.”

The launch coincided with a Belfast workshop organised by the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE), which aims to examine and explore key ideas about urban regeneration.

Jon Rouse, Chief Executive of CABE, said: "Across Europe we have seen examples of how investment in high quality public spaces can create urban renaissance. I hope that the workshop will provide a starting point for some really radical thinking which will assist Belfast in creating spaces that will be an attractive, inviting place for residents and visitors alike. We are delighted that Belfast City Council have invited us to hold a workshop in their city, where urban regeneration is high on political, social and public agendas."

(GB)