A transformational project to create a more welcoming and user-friendly space for residents, businesses, and visitors at Weymouth train station has won two trophies at the ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards 2023.
The £1.2m project led by Dorset Coast Forum in partnership with Dorset Council, using funding from South Western Railway, was designed by WSP to open up the layout of the station forecourt, promoting sustainable transport options and reducing anti-social behaviour. The scheme also involved the creation of Pocket Park from a disused section of track.
As well as being presented with the Community Award, Weymouth Station Gateway was given the Judges’ Special Award. The judging panel was impressed with the collaborative, respectful partnership behind the scheme, bringing together the local community, the rail company and the transport authority to improve the public realm. The judges described the project as an outstanding example of infrastructure that unites communities and improves people’s daily lives.
Ten project awards and two individual trophies were presented at the ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards in association with Kier BAM on Friday 10 November at a gala ceremony in Bristol hosted by TV presenter, Rob Bell. The awards are held annually to recognise achievement among regional engineers and project teams.
Councillor Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:
“I’m absolutely thrilled that the team has won these two fantastic awards from the Institution of Civil Engineers. Dorset Council invested significantly in this partnership scheme which has transformed the forecourt into a more welcoming and accessible place for visitors and has already shown a reduction in anti-social behaviour. A big driver of this scheme was to improve connections for sustainable travel, encouraging people to use rail travel instead of their cars which helps reduce congestion and improve air-quality in the town.
“I’d like to pass on my thanks and congratulations to Dorset Council’s officers and our partner organisations for their part in making this scheme so successful, it’s an exemplar of excellent partnership working, and I’m delighted this has been recognised by the Institution.”
Miranda Housden, ICE South West Regional Director, said:
“The ICE South West Civil Engineering Awards 2023 showcased a strong field of entries, marking a competitive year that underlines the region’s depth of expertise and achievement. These amazing projects are taking on some of our most significant regional challenges. And with the talent of our apprentices and graduates, the future for civil engineering in the South West looks very promising. Congratulations to all who participated this year.”
