NSW Planning Awards highlight work to guide transition away from fossil fuel economies
Muswellbrook Shire Council and the University of South Australia have been awarded the prestigious President’s Award at tonight’s 2020 PIA NSW Awards for Planning Excellence.
The Award was given for its study titled ‘Measure of success for coal fire power station and coal mine closures’, which recognises the importance of preparing for the diversification of the economy in response to restructuring in coal and power generation and the growth in new industries and rural tourism.
In awarding the prize, PIA NSW President Juliet Grant noted, “By acting on the recommendations in the Study, Muswellbrook Shire Council and its partners are determined to ensure that the Upper Hunter Region undertakes a successful regional economic transition.”
Darling Square, nominated by Aspect Studios with Kengo Kuma & Associates and Lendlease, won in the Great Place category.
The design exhibits excellent attention to detail – a suite of diverse, high quality and flexible public spaces centre around an iconic public building and square that accommodates both the present and future civic experiences for a dynamic new community.
The Planning Champion Award went to Dr Cameron Murray from the University of Sydney for his contributions to the planning debate and his role as one of the few public independent voices for planning.
The Young Planner of the Year was Timothy Walsh from Randwick City Council, who on top of great professional success as a strategic planner, responded to a call out for volunteers to assist Bega Valley Shire Council’s recovery work following the devastating bushfires.
PIA NSW President Juliet Grant commended all winners, commendations and nominations noting, “In a tough year for our community, the planning profession has one again shown how vital our work is in responding to environmental crises, social challenges and tough economic conditions”.
Citations and photos of the commendations and winners are available to see in our Awards Booklet.
About the awards: The Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) is the national body representing planning and the planning profession. The 2020 PIA NSW Awards for Planning Excellence are a stepping-stone to PIA’s National Awards for planning excellence.
More information on the 2020 PIA NSW Awards for Planning Excellence can be found at: /nsw