TOP building projects across the region have triumphed in prestigious awards recognising regeneration, design and conservation of buildings important to generations of North-Easterners.

Last night's annual RICS Awards saw Darlington's new cultural hub top the shortlist of more than 40 builds and designs completed over the last 12 months.

Darlington Hippodrome & Theatre Hullabaloo won the Building Conservation accolade for what RICS judges described as an exemplary refurbishment, remodelling and extension of the much-loved Grade II Edwardian theatre.

RICS judges commended the project team – Darlington Borough Council, Space Architects and Willmott Dixon Construction – for meticulously restoring the original Edwardian auditorium and entrance, whilst incorporating new additions and facilities to the building.

These include a new promenade gallery – which reflects stars and royals such as Queen Victoria that once frequented the theatre – along with a contemporary cafe, heritage and education resources and a purpose designed children’s theatre.

The annual RICS Awards, North East was held last night in Newcastle's Civic Centre to celebrate inspirational built initiatives in the region, and the skills of the teams behind them, across eight categories.

The Green housing regeneration scheme helping to breathe new life into Hartlepool’s town centre won the Residential award. It has replaced 175 semi-derelict terraced properties with 86 modern homes for rent, situated around a communal green.

RICS judges praised the project team – Placefirst Construction and MCAU Architects – for the attention to detail internally and externally on the properties.

The winners of all eight categories, announced on the night by host BBC Look North TV presenter, Jeff Brown, are:

• Building Conservation – Darlington Hippodrome & Theatre Hullabaloo, Darlington

• Commercial – 71 Grey Street, Newcastle

• Community Benefit – Beacon of Light, Sunderland

• Design through Innovation – Cleveland Community Safety Hub, Middlesbrough

• Infrastructure – Northern Spire, Sunderland

• Regeneration – Ravensworth Road Regeneration Scheme, Gateshead

• Residential – The Green, Hartlepool

• Tourism & Leisure – Spanish City, Whitley Bay

Chair of the judging panel for the RICS Awards, North East, Adam Serfontein, managing director of Hanro Group, said: “A diverse range of innovative projects, of all sizes and budgets, made the shortlist this year and the winners are truly representative of our region’s best and most innovative built projects that are having a significant positive impact on their communities.

"The teams behind these winning projects should be very proud of their exceptional achievements and contribution to the region.”

All category winners will go on to compete against other regional winners at the national RICS Awards Grand Final in October in London for the chance to be crowned the overall UK winner in their category.