Main image: Soul2Sand
DPP Planning is delighted to announce that its teams have been involved in several shortlisted projects in the Constructing Excellence North East (CENE) Awards 2026.
The awards recognise the very best of the region’s built environment, celebrating innovation, collaboration and quality in the industry across the North East.
Among those shortlisted for an Integration and Collaborative Working award is the Market Pavilion in Blyth, a landmark cultural project delivered through a highly collaborative approach for Northumberland County Council, with FaulknerBrowns as lead architect. Built using modern methods of construction and cutting‑edge digital tools, the project benefitted from improved efficiency, reduced on‑site waste and strong coordination across the design and delivery team. Kier Construction made extensive use of advanced software, including 3D modelling and drone technology, allowing progress to be tracked accurately and quality maintained throughout, resulting in a high‑quality building delivered efficiently and successfully.
In the Delivering Value category, Sugar Hill Primary School has been shortlisted for its thoughtful and carefully considered design. The new one‑storey school building is arranged to enable passive supervision across open spaces and playing fields through clear cross‑views between each wing. Sited to the rear of the existing school, the proposals allow construction works to be carried out safely while minimising disruption to pupils and staff, ensuring educational continuity while delivering long‑term value for the school and wider community. Read more about it here.
Image: Howarth Litchfield Architects.
Also shortlisted in this category is the Urgent Treatment Centre at the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. The new centre will provide same‑day care for patients with urgent healthcare needs that cannot wait, treating illnesses or injuries that cannot be managed at home or with the support of a pharmacist. Designed to alleviate pressure on the existing Emergency Department, the project demonstrates the importance of collaborative working across multiple partners to deliver essential healthcare infrastructure that responds directly to community need. Read more about it here.
Image: P+HS Architects
Further recognition has been given to both the RVI Urgent Treatment Centre and the Market Pavilion, which have also been shortlisted for Building Project of the Year, highlighting the quality, impact and ambition of both schemes.
The CENE Awards shine a spotlight on the people and partnerships behind the region’s most successful projects, and we are extremely proud to have played a part in these shortlisted schemes. Congratulations to all teams involved, we look forward to celebrating with you in at the award ceremony on June 12th, at the Grand Gosforth Park Hotel in Newcastle.
