A project to rejuvenate and futureproof an historic landmark in a seaside town has been recognised for excellence in construction within the region.

Grade II listed Wells Maltings in Wells-next-the-Sea won the RICS 2019 – East of England award for Community Benefit at a glamorous gala dinner at the Apex, Bury St Edmunds on Wednesday (15^th May).

The regenerated arts, heritage and community complex in the heart of Wells, opened formally in September 2018 following a £5m restoration and extension project.

In its first 20 weeks the venue attracted more than 3,000 visitors, showcased 90 separate live events and hired out facilities to 15 new community groups.

Daniel Connal Partnership (DCP), who have offices in Norwich, Colchester and London, worked as quantity surveyors and project managers on the development. The wider construction team included architects Chaplin Farrant, contractor Robson Construction and engineers JP Chick.

Senior Partner at DCP, Robert Dale, commented, “We are incredibly proud to have been involved in the complete restoration and extension of this much-loved but time-worn historic asset.  And for it to be recognised by RICS, is a huge achievement for the team.

“The scheme has been a community project from the outset and to see it being embraced as a sustainable and exciting destination is truly fantastic.”

The annual RICS awards, organised and run by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, recognise excellence in the built environment, showcasing successful and inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure.

All category winners will go through to the RICS Awards 2019 Grand Final in London on the 8 November at the Royal Lancaster Hotel.