MACCLESFIELD Borough Council is hunting for grand designs.

Borough planners are looking for great examples of new building projects which were finished in 2006.

They are calling on residents and businesses to reward the builder or architect of excellent examples of new building, landscape or conversion projects across the Macclesfield, Knutsford, Wilmslow and Poynton areas.

The aim of the Macclesfield Design Awards is to encourage interest in architecture and to celebrate great ideas.

Nominations are invited from architects, developers, contractors and owners but entries are welcome from anyone.

Projects, which should have significant design content, need to have been completed during 2006, and should be for:

  • Complete new buildings or groups of buildings;
  • Sizeable extensions;
  • Refurbishment schemes.

These can be from industrial, commercial, retail and domestic developments. Shop fronts and advertisements with a significant design contribution are also welcome.

An independent panel of judges, including a planner, urban design officer, conservation officer and several architects will choose one winner from each section, and can make up to three recommendations for commendations.

Councillor Jamie Macrae, cabinet portfolio holder for planning and development, said: "We'll be looking at the relationship between the building and the surrounding area, the use of materials and building techniques, the positive impact of the design and the use of sympathetic landscaping. We've had some great entries in previous years and it's always exciting to see the imagination of designers."

Previous winners include McCann Erikson, Bonis Hall, Prestbury in 2004, a stunning interior at St Michael and All Angels Church, Macclesfield 2005, and Willow House, Hough Lane, Wilmslow, last year.

The closing date for entries is June 4 and the shortlist will be announced on June 15. The awards will be presented by the Mayor of Macclesfield borough in a ceremony at the end of that month.

For further information and application form, contact Alistair Yates on 01625 504672, email a.yates@macclesfield.gov.uk , or see www.macclesfield.gov.uk .

Entries must be accompanied by five colour photographs no smaller than 7cm by 5cm showing the building in its setting. The pictures will be used to form an exhibition and provide content for a good practice brochure.