The Creative Hub scooped top prize in the Regeneration category at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) East of England awards, held at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds.
The transformation of the former Police Station forms a central part of the town’s extensive regeneration strategy and was carried out by owners Colchester Borough Council, along with partners Essex County Council, SPACE, and architects Ash Sakula.
The project was shortlisted for its impact on Regeneration and Economic Growth, which revitalised the former dilapidated Grade II listed building in the St Botolph’s Regeneration Area of Colchester Town Centre into a 21st century incubation and collaboration space – offering ultrafast broadband connectivity for up to 40 new and developing SMEs in the Creative and Digital Sector.
Councillor Annie Feltham, Portfolio Holder for Business, Leisure and Opportunities, said: “I am absolutely delighted, though not surprised, that 37 Queen Street has been recognised for such a prestigious award by an organisation as highly respected as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
“We have not only worked successfully in partnership to bring a historic and iconic building back into full and productive use, we have also made it one of the most technologically advanced buildings in Colchester Town Centre – one that plays host to a wealth of forward-thinking and developing enterprises which are helping to grow the local economy and prove that the Borough means business. I would like to congratulate everyone who has played a part in winning this impressive award.”
Cllr David Finch, Leader of Essex County Council, said:
“Essex is thinking, acting and investing creatively in start-ups and fledgeling businesses to grow our economy. The Creative Hub in Colchester is a shining example of this: working together to bring something new and exciting to help grow the local economy. We are very pleased that it has been recognised on a regional scale.”
Anna Harding, SPACE Chief Executive, said:
“This is a fantastic endorsement of the commitment of Colchester Borough Council, Essex County Council and the creative and digital sectors, through a high-quality building refurbishment. 37 Queen Street provides excellent studio space in Colchester Town Centre, which SPACE is honoured to be delivering. We congratulate our project partners.”