A transformative project designed to create a more welcoming and user-friendly space for residents, businesses and visitors at Weymouth railway station has won two trophies at the ICE Civil Engineering Awards Southwest 2023.
The ยฃ1.2m project led by Dorset Coast Forum in association with Dorset Council, using funding from South Western Railway, was designed by WSP Open the station concourse layout, promoting sustainable transport options and reducing antisocial behaviour. The plan also involved creating Pocket Park from a disused stretch of track.
As well as receiving the Community Award, Weymouth Station Gateway also received the Judge's Special Award. The judging panel was impressed with the collaborative and respectful partnership behind the scheme, which brings together the local community, the railway company and the transport authority to improve the public realm. Judges described the project as an outstanding example of infrastructure that unites communities and improves people's daily lives.
At the fair, ten project awards and two individual trophies were awarded. ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards in association with Kier BAM on Friday, November 10 at a gala ceremony in Bristol hosted by television presenter Rob Bell. The awards are held annually to recognize the achievements of regional engineers and project teams.
Councilor Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for roads, travel and environment at Dorset Council, said:
โI am absolutely thrilled that the team has won these two fantastic awards from the Institution of Civil Engineers. Dorset Council invested significantly in this partnership scheme which has transformed the esplanade into a more welcoming and accessible place for visitors and has already demonstrated a reduction in anti-social behaviour. A big driver of this plan was improving connections for sustainable travel, encouraging people to use the train instead of their cars, helping to reduce congestion and improve air quality in the city.
โI would like to extend my thanks and congratulations to Dorset Council officers and our partner organizations for their part in the success of this scheme. It is an example of excellent collaboration and I am delighted that the institution has recognized this.โ
Miranda Housden, ICE South West Regional Director, said:
โThe ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards 2023 showed a strong field of entries, marking a competitive year that underlines the depth of experience and achievements in the region. These incredible projects are taking on some of our biggest regional challenges. And with the talent of our apprentices and graduates, the future of civil engineering in the South West looks very promising. Congratulations to everyone who participated this year.โ
Full details of all winners are available at www.ice.org.uk/sw/awards.
