Two new environmental categories have been added as Kingston Society's biennial Townscape Awards returns for the first time since 2017.

The new categories open for nominations include 'Landscape' (any project which has positively contributed to the borough's environment) and 'Greenscape' (any project which has ecology as its central focus.  

Bob Phillips, Kingston Society's Awards Coordinator, said: "While architectural styles are constantly evolving, the relationship between high quality design, creativity and sustainable practices has never been more important. 

"We hope that introducing two new environmentally influenced categories to Kingston Society's Townscape Awards will allow us to showcase some of the positive urban projects and resource-efficient practices that have added value to the community while promoting greater civic pride." 

Residents can select projects which they believe have boosted Kingston's townscape over the last five years. Some notable local initiatives include Friends of Kingston Recreational Ground, Beeline Way and the Queen's Promenade.

The shortlisted entries received by 15 September will then be judged by a team of local judges, including architects, historic building conservation specialists and Kingston Council's biodiversity officer.

Whilst the Townscape Awards have historically focused on architectural developments, this year's awards new categories recognise noteworthy improvements to the borough's natural as well as built environment. There will also be a "People's Choice" award, voted for by Kingston Society members. 

The four main award categories for 2023 are: 

·       New buildings: developments of any size 

·       Renovation: Refurbishment and / or sensitive extensions to old buildings of distinction 

·       Landscape: any project that has positively contributed to the borough's environment 

·       Greenscape: any project that has ecology at the heart of its provision 

The Townscape Awards were first introduced by Kingston Society in 1989 to recognise projects which had most positively contributed to enhancing the Royal Borough's appearance and amenities. 

This year's awards are held in memory of long-time members Tony Leitch and Neil Philpott in recognition of their contributions to helping Kingston Society promote high standards of planning, conservation and design. 

Projects must be for developments completed by September 2023 that have been started any time since January 2018, and entries must be submitted via the online form on Kingston Society's website by Friday 15 September. 

The shortlist will be revealed at the end of September, with the Townscape Award winners announced at Kingston Society's 18 October public meeting and presented with their award by the Mayor. 

To find out more on Kingston Society's Townscape Awards 2023 or to submit your nomination visit www.kts.org.uk/townscapeawards