Awards are made to developments at two stages; Project, where the scheme has detailed planning permission but is not yet Completed (on site and even partly occupied is eligible); and for Completed schemes. Generally, a scheme that is built out as a series of distinct buildings or phases of homes can apply for a Completed Award.
Developments may consist of private or public-sector new build (and any combination of), conversion or renovation schemes in England, provided they are of four or more dwellings. Schemes including non-residential uses may be entered provided housing constitutes a major element. Most C2 Planning uses are considered for the Awards, as long as sleeping arrangements are discrete. Buildings with dormitory or ward like arrangements are not eligible.
Judging is carried out by a panel consisting of representatives from each Awards sponsor:
Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), Homes England, Greater London Authority (GLA), Department of Health (DH), National House Building Council (NHBC), Home Builders Federation (HBF), Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and the Landscape Institute. There are four further judges, from Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, Design South East, the Good Homes Alliance and Design for Homes (this judge is also the rapporteur responsible for analysis of schemes and reports on winners and shortlisted).
