Presidents Award for the Best New Building in England and Wales

February 5th 2008

The presentation took place on Friday 18th Jan by Mr Charles Harle, Regional President of the Country Landowners and Business Association of their Rural Building Awards.

The Roundhouse at The Grange, Summerhouse Nr Darlington not only won the Best New Building in the Northern Region but went on to win the Presidents Award for the Best New Building in England and Wales.

Judge, Angus Collingwood-Cameron, CLA Director North East said:
"All the judges were extremely impressed with the Roundhouse and felt that the National Award was clearly justified for the ingenious concept for this ingenious concept for housing livestock, based on a design which actually goes back to the bronze age.

"Its modern design and materials have created a unique building, not only optimising animal welfare, but significantly reducing operational costs. The roof is made from tensile fabric of high strength and designed to blend into its surroundings.

"The design allows easier, safer handling, better air flow therefore reduced veterinary bills, and initial results indicate an increased weight gain so a reduced finishing time. I am sure that this design will become a common site on UK farms and will also find other applications.

"It is precisely the kind of building that we hoped the Awards would uncover, one that demonstrates a contribution to both environment and economy, and is one that thoroughly deserves public recognition."

Further details are on www.cla.org.uk in north east regional news.