29/1/2010 Broadcasting Place scoops design award

Downing’s Broadcasting Place development in Leeds has been recognised at a prestigious architectural awards ceremony.

The development won the Best New Building category at the Leeds Architecture Awards, with judges describing the design as ‘architecture with a capital A’.

Downing, who received the award with architects Feilden Clegg Bradley, completed the scheme in 2009.

Now in its 24th year, the Leeds Architecture Awards celebrate and encourage excellence in architectural design across the city. They recognise and reward innovation, sustainability and high quality regeneration schemes.

Broadcasting Place represents the largest single use of Cor-Ten cladding in Europe. The material, a steel alloy which was used on the Angel of the North, oxidises over time to give a stunning deep-red colour.

Paul Houghton, development director at Downing, said: “Broadcasting Place was four years in planning and construction and we are delighted to have created something which represents the very best in urban planning, architecture and design and is certain to become a focal point for the city centre.

“The development represents a significant achievement - this was a complex site, within a conservation area. Working in partnership with English Heritage, CABE and Leeds Metropolitan University we have brought about a development that is visually stunning and equips thousands of Leeds’ students with unrivalled teaching and accommodation facilities.”

Director of Estates at Leeds Met, Sue Holmes, who attended the event along with colleagues Paul Riley, Chris Bailey and Chris Royffe, said: "Broadcasting Place has caught the imagination of the city and its residents as well as creating a fantastic learning space for students and staff."