Sustainable Development of the Year

Winner: Sir Robert McAlpine, New Street Square

This development embraced the principles of sustainability from design and procurement through to construction itself. The contractors on the £200m commercial scheme worked closely with the designers and supply chain to minimise waste. Recycled glass aggregate was used in place of foamed concrete or polystyrene, the team strived to eliminate excess packaging and 96% of timber came from Forest Stewardship Council sources. Each subcontractor completed a ³package waste schedule² to examine all materials brought to site and calculate the amount that ended up wasted. Other sustainable features on the four BREEAM ³excellent²-rated towers include green roofs and a living green wall to enhance biodiversity and cycle racks to encourage eco-friendly transport. The scheme also had an exemplary attitude to the surrounding community ­ residents were kept updated through regular liaison meetings in a local bar.