The Glass Works Claims Major National Regeneration Award Ahead Of Opening

June 21, 2021

The Glass Works – the flagship development that continues to transform Barnsley town centre’s retail and leisure heart – has been crowned the winner of the prestigious Regeneration award at the Planning Awards 2021.

The Planning Awards, which are organised by the industry leading planning resource for town planning professionals in the UK, are one of the most coveted and respected awards within the property industry and reward excellence in professional planning work, placemaking, urban design, economic development and regeneration.

The awards are selected by a diverse panel of 20 judges, with esteemed representatives from planning, placemaking, design, heritage, public and transport sectors.

The Glass Works beat seven other impressive regeneration projects across the UK – including Hendon Waterside in North London, Malt Street in South London, Kresen Kernow in Cornwall and Port Loop in Birmingham.

The judges said that the Barnsley Council-led scheme was “a great example of how strategic development and targeted investment can play a huge part in revitalising a local economy”.

Cllr Tim Cheetham, Cabinet Spokesperson for Place at Barnsley Council, said: “We are grateful and unbelievably proud to see The Glass Works win this year’s Planning Award for Regeneration. To go up against some truly outstanding developments from across the country and come out on top is a huge achievement. It is a success for the Council, the project team involved, and of course, the people of Barnsley who make our town so great.

“The award is recognition that the Council, our development partner Queensberry and principal contractor Henry Boot Construction, are delivering something truly significant and important for Barnsley. The Glass Works is helping us create a more dynamic and sustainable town centre environment that meets the needs of our residents, businesses and visitors. It is built upon Barnsley’s strong traditions and sense of community and provides a modern, accessible and inviting destination for all.

“It is also just the start. The investment made into The Glass Works is beginning to reap rewards, acting as a catalyst for further improvements to the town centre and providing a new sense of confidence that can help us attract investment and deliver long-term growth.”

The completed elements of The Glass Works development – including Market Kitchen, Barnsley Markets and Library @ The Lightbox – are now once again and being enjoyed by the public following recent Covid closures. Set for completion towards the end of this year, the final phase of The Glass Works programme includes a 13-screen Cineworld, Superbowl UK bowling venue, popular family restaurants like Nando’s and shops including NEXT, Sports Direct with USC, TK Maxx and Flannels.