Call for entries to 2005 Dynamic Place awards

The search is on across the Highlands and Islands for entries to the Dynamic Place Awards 2005, the only awards in Scotland that recognise the country's leading design, innovation and regeneration projects.

Now in its fifth successful year, the Scotland-wide initiative showcases excellence in the design and implementation of projects which enhance the country's urban and rural environments. The awards are organised by Scottish Enterprise and supported by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Communities Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage.

Kevin Macdonald of HIE's strengthening communities group said:  "The Highlands and Islands have a strong track record in the Dynamic Place awards, especially last year when Shetland's COPE Enterprises won the overall award. 

"I'm sure we can gather another strong batch of entries for 2005 and would urge anyone who is involved in a project which meets the awards' criteria to put forward an entry.  It's a great opportunity to win recognition for our communities."

Paul Lewis, director of competitive place at Scottish Enterprise, said: "These awards are an important catalyst towards improving and promoting the economy and environment of Scotland, making it a more globally attractive location."

"We're looking for projects which have helped build a 'dynamic place': something that's transformed an area and created an attractive place for people to live, work and visit. We're looking for sustainable projects that have encouraged economic growth, maximising the potential of its area and its community."

The awards will be presented in the categories of; Built Environment, Community Development and Connections.

Last year's overall winner, Lerwick-based COPE Enterprises, provides support and employment to adults with disabilities and which has led to a number of spin out companies including a new garden centre and a soap manufacturer.

As well as COPE, other previous winners from the Highlands and Islands include An Turas, Isle of Tiree; Bute Recycling Centre, Rothesay; Timber Lineside Loading, Kinbrace, Sutherland; Loch Ness 2000, Drumnadrochit; Glencoe Visitor Centre; The Ice Factor, Kinlochleven; the Alness Initiative; Touchwood, Uig, Isle of Skye; Taigh Chearsabhagh, Lochmaddy, North Uist; Kallin Boatshed, North Uist, and
Balivanich regeneration project, Benbecula.

This year's winners will be announced at a prestigious ceremony to be held at the Adventure Centre, Ratho, home of the National Rock Climbing Centre and the world's largest indoor climbing arena.

The competition is free to enter. More information about the 2005 awards and application details are available by logging on to the Scottish Enterprise website: http://www.scottish-enterprise.com/dynamicplaceawards/