THE Farnham Society has announced the winners in its annual Amenity Awards.

In making these awards the society looks for and commends excellence.

It considers all of the developments which have occurred during the period under review and it selects those projects (both large and less so) which, in its opinion, have contributed to improving the amenity of Farnham.

Awards:

The society's amenity award plaque: the construction of the new Performing Arts Centre at Frensham Heights School. (Architects: Burrell Foley Fisher).

Citation: This is an outstanding project, both in terms of architectural quality and educational potential for drama and the arts generally.

A relatively low budget, in the words of the architects, has had the advantage of "avoiding gross exuberance and over-embellishment"; and, consequently, the overall concept is simple and beautifully detailed with great integrity.

The building sits comfortably in its rural surroundings, with its cladding of timber suggesting a barn-like structure, although in an uncompromising contemporary manner.

The Director of the National Youth Music Theatre has said that it is the best small space theatre that he has ever seen - a testimonial to the fact that this building has functional as well as architectural excellence.

Certificate of high commendation: programme of new building and conversion at Edgeborough School. (Architects: Michael Leishman and Barnsley Hewett & Mallinson; Contractors: Sandrock Building Services).

Citation: Edgeborough School has been engaged in a rolling programme of new building and conversion, which has resulted in the removal of a number of unsightly ad hoc features that had accumulated over the years.

The architecture, with good materials and workmanship, is modest; and, in resisting any attempt to copy its style, successfully complements the original Victorian mansion.

The improved accommodation thus provided has clearly contributed to the educational amenities of Farnham.

Certificate of high commendation: Parish Church of St Andrew: (Architects: Brown Matthews Partnership).

Citation: The society warmly acknowledges the action taken by the parish as its custodians for the present, in the re-roofing of the Parish Church of St Andrew and especially the repair work undertaken to the "landmark" Church Tower; all thus ensuring its future for many years to come.

The society considers that the skill with which this work has been planned and undertaken is to be highly commended.

Certificate of commendation: restoration of Kiln Cottage, 27 Sandrock Hill Road, Wrecclesham.

Citation: this simple vernacular cottage, the condition of which was considered to have deteriorated beyond repair, was threatened with demolition in favour of re-development. Although the society opposed that proposal, it duly received planning approval.

The property then changed hands and the new owner, Mr M J Malik, realised that there was merit in retaining and restoring Kiln Cottage; and a small part of Farnham's heritage has thereby been preserved.

The society commends Mr Malik for his action.

Chairman's letter of congratulation: Church House and The Old Court House, Union Road.

Citation: the exterior refurbishment of both of these buildings, together with the re-ordering of their forecourts, although possibly regardable as cosmetic, have made a significant contribution to improving the street scene in Union Road; and signify that they have a new life ahead of them.

With regard to Church House, the significant character of which has now been recognised in its Listing by English Heritage, the society is particularly grateful to Sir Ray Tindle for purchasing this splendid arts and crafts building, thereby ensuring its permanent future as an important part of the history of Farnham.

Chairman's letter of congratulation: footpath Signing, the Bourne and Lower Bourne:

Citation: this millennium project came from the "grass roots" level, in that it was conceived and carried out by the Bourne Residents' Association, with the co-operation of the local authorities.

The society considers that it is such relatively small initiatives that demonstrate and reinforce the pride which residents have in their own local area and that this is an excellent example of community action deserving of recognition.

The Society congratulates the Bourne Residents' Association on its initiative and for contributing to the amenity of Farnham in such a practical way.

Chairman's letter of congratulation: village sign, Rowledge:

Citation: this millennium project came from the "grass roots" level, in that it was conceived and carried out by the Rowledge Residents' Association, with the cooperation of the Local Authorities.

The Society considers that it is such relatively small initiatives that demonstrate and reinforce the pride which residents have in their own local area and that this is an excellent example of community action deserving of recognition.

Chairman's letter of congratulation: refurbishment of part of their Dogflud Way premises by Swain & Jones:

Citation: the society congratulates Swain & Jones on the refurbishment of part of their Dogflud Way premises, for the creation of new car sale showrooms.

Although undertaken primarily for commercial considerations, the society nevertheless considers that this refurbishment makes a notable and most welcome contribution to improving the street scene in this important location...