Waterbeach School Plaza shortlisted for award

Urban&Civic partner, Stantec was shortlisted for Place Making Initiative of the Year for its work on Waterbeach School Plaza in October’s British Construction Industry Awards (BCIA).

At the Waterbeach development, Stantec applied a radical new methodology to design the street network for Urban&Civic, leading to the removal of all motor vehicle traffic from outside the development’s first proposed new Primary School.

By re-coding the uses of the streets in the outline masterplan, Stantec’s design shifted the focus of the area from one where conflict arises between children and cars to one where a landscaped plaza facilitates safer routes to school, play and interaction. The approach, designed in collaboration with Urban&Civic and supported and encouraged by other stakeholders including the County Council, will result in a positive, healthier experience for children and parents alike.

Wesley Wroe, Stantec’s Technical Lead for Active Travel, said: “As people’s mobility habits and preferences change, our transport network needs to ensure a safe environment for all users. Drawing motor traffic away from sensitive areas like schools, while encouraging healthier methods of travel, is a key step on this journey. We’re proud that our work in Waterbeach will help protect children and residents, as well as boost local sustainability.”

Hosted by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and New Civil Engineer, the BCIAs seek to recognise and reward excellence in project delivery across the built environment and in delivering positive outcomes for society. The judges described Stantec’s work on Waterbeach School Plaza as a “great initiative” that “can potentially set an excellent example for other to follow.”