Quest to find best new rural buildings

England and Wales's new rural buildings are to be entered in a contest to find the country's finest conversions and developments. The CLA Rural Buildings Awards aims to showcase high quality design and workmanship. Traditional farm buildings, sporting facilities, tourism projects and holiday accommodation can all be entered for the awards.

The awards have been devised by the County Land and Business Association (CLA) and Knight Frank. 'We should be proud of the way in which the new built heritage of our countryside is evolving, stimulated by diversification,' said CLA President David Fursdon. 'Quite often they are at the cutting edge of design but balance that with an understanding of the importance of their environment.'

As well as good design the judges will also be looking at the energy efficiency and community benefits of projects. Awards will be made regionally across two categories ? new and converted buildings. A further award will be made by the CLA President, selected from among the regional category award winners.

Sandy Douglas, Head of Knight Frank Rural Consultancy, said: 'There has been a beneficial shift in the use of rural buildings, providing diversified revenue for the landowner, new uses for old and often these important buildings contribute to the community.'

Winners will be announced in November 2007 and will receive a commemorative plaque and certificates at an award ceremony in London in December 2007. Deadline for entries is April 30 2007.

For more information on the scheme and details of how to enter visit, http://www.cla.org.uk/ruralbuildingsawards email ruralbuildings@cla.org.uk or call 01539 567597