North Norfolk District Council's Graham Allen Award has for the last 34 years celebrated best practice in design and conservation in the district and is now open for entries.

Help to celebrate excellent design and conservation which complements the area by nominating a building for a Graham Allen Award.

North Norfolk has a history of producing high quality innovative developments and sensitive renovation projects which complement the district's unique environment.

North Norfolk District Council's Graham Allen Award has for the last 34 years celebrated best practice in design and conservation in the district and is now open for entries.

Councillor Sue Arnold, the local authority's Cabinet Member for Planning, said: 'This is a great opportunity to seek recognition for projects which have made a standout contribution to the built environment, local communities and heritage. Whether it be new build, extension, restoration or refurbishment the Graham Allen Award recognises excellence in all design projects.'

Originally inaugurated in 1982 as a memorial to the late Graham Allen, the first Chairman of NNDC, the awards scheme has recognised a diverse selection of north Norfolk's finest architecture.

Winners have ranged from the extension to Binham Priory, to the refurbishment of the Gunton Arms, Thorpe Market.

Last year's overall winner was Manor Farm Barns in The Street, Kettlestone. The barns are on the main entrance to the village and had been lying derelict for some time. The project involved the complete restoration and refurbishment of the barn complex into four new homes. The scheme successfully used traditional materials and to retain the character and original charm of the barns.

The first ever People's Choice Award went to The Old School in Polka Road Wells. The project saw the restoration and conversion of a Grade II listed primary school and former field study centre into ten affordable homes for keyworkers and local families in the town.

If you are aware of a building project which has helped to transform your village or town within the district; or if you have created a dream home or building we want to hear from you. Please note nominated schemes will be subject to the entry criteria and therefore we cannot guarantee every nominated scheme will be entered into the awards.

The closing date for entries is Tuesday, June 30. For more information and to check the entry criteria go to www.northnorfolk.org/planning/12799.asp if you are nominating a scheme please ensure you have the permission of the owner.

The Graham Allen Award is presented annually by the council to the scheme considered to make the most significant contribution to the built environment within the district.

Schemes considered worthy of commendation are also acknowledged by the presentation of certificates. The panel of judges comprises of members elected from the Development Control Committee, the relevant Portfolio Member and Mr Edward Allen (who represents the Allen family).