Tendring District Council has been named Social Value Champion of the Year at the Institute of Economic Development (IED) Annual Awards 2024 for its work on The Sunspot, a new landmark building on the seafront at Jaywick Sands.
The awards, which were hosted in London on 6th November following the IED Annual Conference ‘Economic Transition – How do we deliver long-lasting change in our towns, cities and regions?’, recognise achievers in the public and private sector through a series of individual, team and organisational categories.
The Social Value Champion of the Year award – sponsored by Social Value Engine, jointly developed and co-owned by Rose Regeneration and East Riding of Yorkshire Council – is for those who have championed and made a significant contribution to social value creation, developing best practice in their field and making positive impacts in their communities.
Tendring’s nomination focused on how The Sunspot is creating economic opportunities, generating jobs, providing local services, transforming and regenerating the area and providing a place the community can be proud in the heart of the town which is labelled the most deprived neighbourhood in Essex.
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Ivan Henderson, TDC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth, Regeneration and Tourism, commented: “We’re delighted that the Sunspot has been recognised with this prestigious award.
“The £5.3million workspace development has had a wonderful impact on the community, providing a thriving hub for local businesses while also becoming a valued destination for residents.
“The Sunspot was designed to be a gateway to Jaywick Sands – and this award confirms that we have achieved our goal.
“My heartfelt thanks go to everyone involved in helping the Sunspot to become the flourishing destination it is today.”
IED Director Bev Hurley CBE, who hosted the IED Annual Awards 2024, said: “Many congratulations to Tendring District Council as the winner of our Social Value Champion of the Year award.
"The judges highlighted the positive impact of this impressive project on the local community, and noted it effectively met community needs, resulting in improved perceptions, high occupancy rates, and business expansions.
"The initiative is recognised for addressing deprivation through collaboration, fostering hope and aspiration, and the submission (which our judges said was written from the heart) demonstrated a pragmatic approach to overcoming local challenges, showcasing strong leadership. It has generated significant economic, social and environmental benefits, emphasising the close-knit community in the area.”
IED Executive Director Nigel Wilcock added: “Congratulations to all our winners, those who our judging panel determined should be Highly Commended for their nomination, and indeed everyone who was shortlisted and took the time and opportunity to enter the awards this year.
"We had a fabulous awards evening, it was an inspirational, uplifting and joyous occasion, and thanks to all award sponsors for their support.”
The IED is the UK’s leading independent professional body for economic development and regeneration practitioners, supporting them to create stronger communities and sustainable economies.
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