The transformation of a disused, overgrown boating lake in Northampton’s Becket’s Park into a modern mooring basin has been shortlisted for an award from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

The RICS 2011 awards are one of the most prestigious prizes in the UK development industry. They recognise a wide array of developments ranging from building conservation projects to major regeneration schemes. Over 230 projects entered the RICS 2011 awards and Northampton Mooring Basin is one of 20 from the East Midlands to make the next stage.

Located off the River Nene, Northampton Moorings are a key step in the long-term renaissance of Northampton’s waterside. Over 80 moorings have been created, including 6 for residential use, and they will be open to boaters in April 2011. A facilities building is currently under construction and is due to be completed in the summer.

There are plans for a major redevelopment of the wider waterside area, including new homes, offices and leisure facilities. In addition, later phases of the Becket’s Park project could deliver new landscaping, lighting, cafés and restaurants, while providing a busy, exciting link between the town centre and the riverfront.

Chris Garden, Director of Regeneration at West Northamptonshire Development Corporation said: “It’s always pleasing when a local project receives national interest and recognition. The moorings at Becket’s Park are a sign of things to come for Northampton’s waterside, which is a key part of a multi-million pound regeneration programme for Northampton town centre.”

Councillor Richard Church, Northampton Borough Council’s cabinet member for planning and regeneration said: “For too long the Nene has been an underused asset, but in the last twelve months we have seen the Northampton Marina take shape. We have taken this opportunity to create something that will breathe new life into our riverside and act as a focal point for local communities and the boating community. Being shortlisted for an award shows just how far we have come and the potential our Marina has to put Northampton on the map as an exciting new destination.”

The Moorings will be open on 22nd April for temporary and residential moorings. Anyone who would like further details on how to book a mooring can telephone the Environment Agency on 01733 464065 or 08708 506 506.

Numerous improvements to Northampton’s waterside have already been completed. During the past 2 years major public investment has been made in a new network of footpaths and cycleways, running along the river Nene from Upton Way to Cotton End. Most recently, two wooden sculptures by artist Joel Parkes were installed opposite the moorings in November 2010.

The Environment Agency is constructing the moorings on behalf of the Becket’s Park Partnership. The Partnership is made up of the Environment Agency, Northampton Borough Council, the River Nene Regional Park, Northamptonshire County Council, Northamptonshire Enterprise Limited and West Northamptonshire Development Corporation (WNDC). Over £2 million has been invested in the scheme, with £1.8million provided by West Northamptonshire Development Corporation, alongside contributions by Northamptonshire County Council and the Environment Agency.

Related posts:

1. Becket’s Park Moorings coming together brick by brick
2. Turf cutting marks official start of Northampton Marina project
3. Go ahead for latest phase of Northampton Marina
4. WNDC programme shortlisted for national award
5. Northamptons proposed Marina gets the green light