AN innovative riverside project has scooped a prestigious award for its far-sighted design and contribution to the environment.

Worcester's Quayhead project was awarded a Civic Trust Award for having reached the highest standard in terms of design.

It is the third award scooped by designer Chris Dobbs and Worcester City Council engineers Graham Vass and Ivor Palmer.

A permanent plaque will now be erected at the South Quay site, which has become a focal point for locals and tourists.

The £462,000 Quayhead was officially opened in December 2001. It was funded through a £60,000 donation from the Duckworth Worcestershire Trust and Lottery grants.

"It's a terrific accolade for the scheme to be recognised in this way, especially nationally," said Mr Dobbs.

"The award is also a tribute to the city council and the Duckworth Worcestershire Trust for their confidence in backing the scheme.

"The square is already proving a popular place and following the opening event by Worcester Arts Workshop and a series of outdoor concerts and theatre presentations, a full programme of outdoor entertainment in and around the square is also planned for the summer."

The Civic Trust was formed to foster high standards of planning and architecture in towns and cities.

The Quayhead was nationally recognised for the transformation of an area that had been used and abused by vehicles with limited pedestrian use and poor linkage to the riverside and Cripplegate Park.

The centrepiece is a German-built multi-jet fountain featuring 13 water jets that vary in height.

There is also natural stone and concrete paving and open space focused on the centrepiece feature.

The scheme was also voted national winner in the 2002 Interpave/PSLG Awards for Excellence in the Design of Public Space and won a commendation in the 2002 Local Government News Street Design competition.