A project by Nigel Anderson of Robert Adam architects recently reached the finals of the Waterways renaissance awards and was commended in the category of 'Design and Construction'. Established by The Waterways Trust and BURA (British Urban Regeneration Association), the Waterways Renaissance Awards recognise best practice in sustainable waterway regeneration throughout Great Britain. The Awards scheme has also received royal support, with HRH The Prince of Wales, Patron of The Waterways Trust The 2006. The award ceremony was held on Wednesday 22 March at a prestigious ceremony and dinner in Madame Tussauds, London, hosted by John Craven. The Awards attracted an exceptionally strong field of nominations this year, and Robert Adam architects were delighted to be one of the few projects selected for commendation.

Bear Wharf is a development of 89 new flats within the centre of Reading on an important canal side site. The site was previously used as an unattractive open car-park enclosed by metal fencing, and the towpath alongside the river Kennett was highly inhospitable and inaccessible. Key to the design was the restoration of the towpath and the reopening of the canal side to the public, ensuring continued riverside access and maintenance for the future. The development was designed as a series of high-density wharf-side buildings that respond to the established local character, with new pedestrian features and sensitive detailing along the towpath. The site now reintegrates the towpath and canal with the fabric of the city and its careful planning and long-term sustainability has brought the waterway back into the public domain.