A BLOCK of affordable flats built on the site of a former office building on stilts won the Community Award after it was described as a “truly delightful scheme”.

John Elworthy, editor, also said award winners Circle Housing Group had shown commendable innovation by building 24 homes which were badly needed in Fenland.

Mr Elworthy said other schemes such as 37 Market Street, Whittlesey, were considered for the award but it was felt Circle had edged to the fore.

Sextant House/Quayside House/Compass House, in Bridge Street, was designed by Martindales Architects Ltd and built by Hills Partnership Ltd.

It replaced Harvest House which was built in the 1970s and perched on piers to avoid an underground culvert and sewer below.

The material treatment of the flats draws on local context and the up-turned boat design to the roof of Compass House reflects the site’s historical dockyard use.

The Community Award was sponsored by the Cambs Times/Wisbech Standard.

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Waldersea House, 172 March Road, Friday Bridge. Owner: Executive Care Group Ltd. Designer: Brand Associates.

37 Market Street, Whittlesey. Owner: Mr N Corney. Designer: James Lewis/Peter Humphrey Associates.

The Cobblestones, Wisbech Road, March. Owner: Marston’s Inns & Taverns. Designer: David Turnock Architects Ltd. Builder: HG Construction.