The Viking Triangle in Waterford has been named as the "Great Place" in Ireland and the UK at a prestigious awards event in London.
The award is one of five given out annually by The Academy of Urbanism to recognise the best, most enduring or most improved cities, towns, neighbourhoods, streets and places. Voted on by Academicians, who include leading architects, planners and developers, each award looks at a number of social, economic and environmental factors, including good governance and commercial success.
#Waterford @Viking_Triangle named GREAT PLACE winner at #UrbanismAwards last night @WLRFMnews @WaterfordIYP @Failte_Ireland @poloconghaile pic.twitter.com/Xwc9pP3TBF
— Business Waterford (@BizWaterford) November 17, 2016
The Viking Triangle beat off competition from the Greenwich Market in London and the Leicester Market in Northern Ireland to win the award.
The judges noted that the Viking Triangle is more than a traditional physical regeneration initiative. “Supported by a strong historical narrative and harnessing the best of their assets, their strategy has been simple yet effective. Public funding has served as a catalyst and with local buy-in this has led to an improved perception of the area. In turn this has enhanced the quality of life and competitiveness of local business which is leading to private sector investment” said Nick Childs, lead assessor.
Congratulations to all of our #UrbanismAwards finalists! pic.twitter.com/uu6we3392i
— Academy of Urbanism (@theAoU) November 16, 2016
The Viking Triangle wasn't the only Irish winner - Clonakilty won The Great Town Award.
Other award winners were:
- Copenhagen - European City of the Year award;
- Ashley Vale, Bristol - Great Neighbourhood Award;
- Wood Street in Walthamstow, London - The Great Street Award
