University News Last updated 21 September 2012
A six month search to find next year’s stars of the West Midlands property and construction sectors is now on, following the launch of the 2013 RICS West Midlands Awards which took place today (Friday 21 September) at Birmingham City University.
Considered the ‘Oscars of the property industry’, the annual awards celebrate the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment.
Today’s launch event saw West Midlands property professionals gather at Birmingham City University’s Millennium Point campus for advice and tips on what the judges are looking for in each of the eight categories and what will make their nomination stand out.
Chairman of the RICS regional judging panel, Roger Stone, a Chartered Surveyor and Land Agent, said: “Despite the slowdown in the economy, the West Midlands still enjoys a large pool of talented individuals, companies and organisations in the property and construction sectors and the judging panel looks forward to receiving a range of submissions and honouring the very best of them.
“Each year the awards honour outstanding projects delivered through strong teamwork against a difficult economic climate in the West Midlands, and the region has seen some world class examples of development over the years. I hope 2013 will be no exception.”
The eight categories to enter are: Regeneration, Community Benefit, Building Conservation, Design & Innovation, Infrastructure, Tourism & Leisure, Commercial and Residential. A ninth award is presented to the scheme considered Project of the Year by the judges – one that has the highest scores across all categories – and is awarded to any one of the winners of the eight categories. The awards will be presented at a ceremony on 1 May 2013 at The Great Hall, University of Birmingham and all winners then go on to compete in the national RICS Awards held later that year.
Roger added: “We welcome anyone to submit a project, including those from outside the industry. The awards attract a diverse range of schemes every year and last year we received a record number of entries. The 2012 awards showcased the most inspirational initiatives and innovative developments from across the country, and we hope to repeat this success next year.”
For entry forms for the 2013 RICS West Midlands Awards, contact hobrien@rics.org. Deadline for entries is 18 January.