Wick street design nomination is 'a really good news story'
Recognition for Wick in a UK-wide "placemaking" award scheme has been welcomed as a notable achievement for the town and its regeneration programme.
The Wick street design project was shortlisted in the community engagement category of the Pineapples Awards 2022. The organisers noted that a 12-month collaborative project led by Sustrans Scotland had seen the project team work with the community and stakeholders in 2019 and 2020 to develop "an ambitious concept design".
The winner of the community engagement category was a regeneration scheme in East London.
The Pineapples – launched in 2019 by The Developer in partnership with Design Council – are described as "the only awards that celebrate the very best in placemaking, recognising excellence with an exciting programme and a commitment to recognising projects that make a positive social, environmental and economic impact".
Highland Council leader Raymond Bremner, who represents Wick and East Caithness, drew attention to the awards at the August meeting of the Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council.
He said: “For Wick to be nominated and to be shortlisted, I think it's a really good news story.”
Sustrans' designs are aimed at making the High Street and Market Square area more attractive, accessible and welcoming, while also highlighting the town's cultural heritage.