The transformation of Chapel Arches in Maidenhead into a “must-go” town centre destination has been recognised with a Design Award by Maidenhead Civic Society. 

Michael Shanly, chairman of Shanly Homes, received a plaque from Civic Society patron, Theresa May MP, at Waterside Quarter today [Friday 15^th March] in a brief ceremony attended by members of the Civic Society’s executive committee. 

Committee members had unanimously approved the award recommendation at their meeting in January.  Waterside Quarter, combining restaurants, retail and residential homes, has made a feature of the waterway and opened up inviting new vistas and streamside walkways.  A unique and innovative design had created an enticing and engaging new area in our town centre while retaining nostalgic influences of the former Colonnade.  The Society also commended the developers for their extensive community engagement before and throughout the process.  It is the first such award by the Society in over a decade. 

Theresa May said: “It is totally appropriate that the Civic Society which encourages the best in building design should reward this development which has completely transformed and enhanced this area of the town centre.”

Michael Shanly said: “We are extremely proud of the Chapel Arches redevelopment.  It was an ambitious vision to transform this area of the town and bring the waterways back to life, but with a great team, and like-minded stakeholders, we've achieved it.  To receive this recognition from the Civic Society is an honour.”

Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead council leader Simon Werner said: “I’ve watched this development from the early planning stage and I’m delighted that it has emerged as a major focal point in our town centre, exceeding expectations.  I applaud the Civic Society’s decision to reward it with their design award.”

The Awards scheme, originally initiated by the Civic Society in the 1970s, was taken over by the Borough and ran biennially until 2005 when it lapsed.  It was revived briefly in 2010 but the Society has not made a similar award again until now.

Waterside Quarter, which completed last year, is the final phase of a three-phase development which over 10 years has seen the rejuvenation of the waterway, the creation of a community amphitheatre and the renovation of some historic High Street premises alongside quality homes with underground parking in all phases including Chapel Wharf and The Picturehouse. 

The Shanly scheme was attracting public attention well before its recent completion and has already become a regular venue for events like the Waterways Fun Day. 

Civic Society planning chair, Martin McNamee, said: “With 182 new homes and a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes and offices, Shanly Homes has brought an exceptionally attractive new neighbourhood to the town centre in exemplary fashion.  The Civic Society would welcome more developments of this quality and standard as regeneration continues.”

Note:  Also attending the photo call today were: Katherine Croom, MD of Sorbon Estates who manage Waterside Quarter, Robin Dorran, development director of Shanly Homes, Bob Dulson, former Chair of Maidenhead Civic Society, and fellow Society executive committee members, Tim Burt, Ann & Brian Darracott, Lisa Curtin and Joyce Delasalle.

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