Manchester architects practice Hodder + Partners has scooped an award for its work on the £30m RHS Garden Bridgewater project, just days after plans for the scheme got the go-ahead.
The practice, which is celebrating its 25th year as Hodder + Partners, received the accolade at this week’s Manchester Architects Awards.
It comes after the government decided not to call in plans for the 154-acre garden in the historic grounds of Worsley New Hall, meaning plans for the biggest gardening project in Europe will soon progress.
Hodder + Partners, led by Chairman and Stephen Hodder MBE, has designed a ‘Welcome building’ which will provide a visitor gateway to RHS Garden Bridgewater.
Stephen said: “We are delighted to be involved in this huge project as it is the fifth national RHS garden and an area that will be a fantastic green space for the people of Salford,
Greater Manchester and beyond.
“Being recognised at the annual Manchester Architects Awards for our work on RHS Garden Bridgewater is also great news for us as a practice.
“Our brief was to design a world-class visitor centre as a gateway to the gardens, and re-purpose existing buildings for catering, garden centre and retail use. When complete the building and surrounding grounds will become a real asset, not just locally, but nationally.”
Stephen, who was recently appointed Visiting Professor at Salford University, added: “As a practice we are focussing on the diversity of our offer, as we boast experience across many sectors and have a quality, innovative, meticulous and hands on approach to the work we undertake for clients.”
Following plans for RHS Garden Bridgewater getting the go-ahead.
Sue Biggs, Director General, RHS, said: “We are delighted with this hugely positive news, which will allow us to progress plans for the biggest gardening project in Europe and create our first new garden in 17 years. It will be truly unique, unlike any of the other gardens in our portfolio, as it boasts a range of habitats from woods and lakes to streams and meadows.
“This news means we can fully embrace our ambition to create one of the most beautiful and inspiring gardens in Britain.”
