Cronton Colliery result

Date:

20 April 2012

Press release contact:

Julia Davies
T: +44 (0)113 203 1490
E: julia.davies@riba.org

Cronton Colliery Competition – winner announced

The challenge to design a pioneering new visitor destination on a former colliery has inspired creative teams across the world to push the boundaries of landscape and architecture. The Land Trust's international design competition attracted 50 entries from all over the world, including innovative projects designed by teams in South Korea, Japan and Italy.

Four of the most inventive schemes were invited to the final stage - HASSELL, Hawkins/Brown, Michael Lee Architects and Edward Architecture & Matthew Riley.

Following an interview with each team, Michael Lee Architects was announced as the winner at a private event held on Thursday 19 April.

Euan Hall, Chief Executive of the Land Trust, explains why Michael Lee Architects was chosen:

'Michael displayed a strong empathy with both the site and the Trust's ambitions. The design really excited us and the creative consortia Michael assembled brought a compelling and thought-provoking ideology to the table. His ability to truly consider the built and open environments really impressed us and as such he's a worthy winner of the competition. We look forward to working with Michael and his team on the project.'

A highly commended selection of entries, including the finalists and winner, is currently on display at the Leeds Design and Innovation Centre, 46 The Calls, Leeds LS2 7EY, until Friday 4 May. The gallery is open Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.

Notes to editors

The Land Trust is a not-for-profit organisation that provides a cost-effective management solution for open space and green infrastructure. This land can deliver significant community benefits, improving health and social cohesion, providing an educational resource and uplifting the local economy.

The Trust's portfolio includes a diverse range of sites that encompass the whole spectrum of public spaces and from large country parks to small areas of landscaping and including ecologically sensitive nature reserves, play areas, community woodlands and urban parks.

The aim of the Trust is to provide long-term sustainable management of open spaces across the country. We already own some 1,000 hectares of land, with a strong balance sheet to provide financial stability and secured foundation capital for our operations. Our open spaces are a crucial part of the social landscape, delivering a range of significant benefits for residents and businesses. Safe and accessible open space allows communities to come together and individuals to develop and relax through physical activity and recreation. Well designed and maintained open spaces are outdoor classrooms, gyms and theatres. They change lifestyles and improve health and wellbeing, so we take them seriously. For further information visit www.thelandtrust.org.uk|.

Please ensure that RIBA Competitions is credited when mentioning the above competition. RIBA Competitions delivers variety, inspiration and value through expertly run competitive selection processes. For further details visit www.architecture.com/competitions|.