The Francis Crick Institute was awarded the Silver Jubilee Cup, for best overall project, in the Royal Town Planning Institute's (RTPI) Awards for Planning Excellence. Over 90 finalists competed in the Awards, across 13 different categories. The Crick was described by the RTPI as 'one of the most complex new buildings in London'.
As well as winning the top prize, the Crick also won in the 'Excellence in Planning to Create Economically Successful Places' category.
Nick Raynsford, a former Minister with responsibility for housing, planning and construction and the chair of the judging panel, said: "Both the design of the building and the planning environment presented immense challenges. Predominant land use nearby was low-rise residential, there are major Grade 1 listed buildings around, and it is situated in one of the most socio?economically deprived wards in England.
"This project is an outstanding example of the value planners bring to a complex project. Their unique set of skills enabled them to engage with the community and incorporate their feedback. This resulted in clear improvements to the project and benefits for the local community, including a community centre, community garden and apprenticeships for young people."
The RPTI praised the Crick for its strong community engagement and for its close collaboration with Camden Council. Katie Matthews, Director of Public Engagement, said, "Engaging with and supporting the local Somers Town community has always been an important commitment for the Francis Crick Institute. It's fantastic for us to see these efforts recognised by the RTPI. Our Discovery Lab, for schools in Camden, and the Somers Town and St Pancras Living Centre have both been real successes. We hope to build on this and to continue strengthening our links with the Somers Town community."
More information on the Crick's work engaging with the local community is available on our website.
