Six skilled and talented urban designers were announced as the winners of this year's Croydon Design Awards on Tuesday, December 11.

President of the Institute of Civil Engineers, Mark Whitby, also chairman of the Urban Design Alliance, introduced the awards at Croydon Town Hall in recognition of the best developments in architectural and landscape design within the borough.

Taking the joint title of best new building, the colourful and modern Foyer Unit in Gillet Road, Thornton Heath, designed by Burgess Mean Architects, was described as having "an exiting front elevation that contributes to the street scene".

Judges thought the three storey building would appeal to the young homeless whom its resources are designed to help.

Also being awarded best in the new building category was designer Porphyrios Associates for Old Palace School's new extension, described as "outstanding", with respect for its historic context and setting.

The award of best residential extension or alteration went to Alan May & Co and Michael Blacker Partnership's design for 20 Harold Road, Upper Norwood, for its great attention to detail and good match with the rest of the property.

The former Selhurst Reservoir Pumphouse, off Grange Road in Thornton Heath, came top in the category commending conservation and rehabilitation.

Having been converted into flats, designer Milford Homes Ltd had preserved the building's character, and enhanced its setting with additional landscaping.

Tramlink's Croydon Council designed ornamental planting next to Lynden Hyrst Flats in Addiscombe Road won best landscape, for resolving difficulties with access and proximity to the tram, while "incorporating an excellent range of plants and shrubs".

Tramlink was also given a special award for its outstanding contribution to regeneration, transport and sustainablility.

Mr Whitby said the winning designs were excellent examples of an increasingly community-oriented vision engaged in by urban designers.

He added: "People are taking longer to walk across Croydon Town Centre, evidence that they are looking at the street scene around them."

Thirty four nominations were received from developers, local interest groups, council officers and members of the public.

An exhibition covering all the short-listed schemes will be on display in Croydon Clocktower, Katharine Street until

January 2 2002.