We are delighted to share that Sunspot (Jaywick Sands Commercial Development) has been honoured with a Civic Trust Award and the prestigious Special Award for Community Impact & Engagement at the 2025 Civic Trust Awards ceremony in Manchester.
These accolades recognise not only the architectural quality of the development but also its exceptional contribution to social value, community wellbeing, and long term local resilience.
This double win marks another milestone in Sunspot’s growing list of achievements, which already includes:
- RIBA East Award 2025
- Best Use of Brownfield Land – Planning Awards 2024
- Highly Commended – MacEwen Award 2023
- The Guardian’s Top 5 Architecture Projects of 2023 by Rowan Moore
A project rooted in community need
Sunspot was conceived as a bold response to the economic and social challenges faced by Jaywick Sands, one of the most deprived areas in the UK. Designed by HAT Projects for Tendring District Council, and supported by the government’s Getting Building Fund, the development was shaped through extensive engagement with local residents, businesses, and community groups.
The Civic Trust judges praised Sunspot for its “people first approach,” recognising how the project has created opportunities, improved local pride, and provided a platform for long term regeneration. The Special Award for Community Impact & Engagement is given only to schemes that demonstrate outstanding social contribution, a testament to the collaborative ethos behind Sunspot’s delivery.
Design that “Does alot with a little” Sunspot has been widely described as a project that “does alot with a little,” combining modest materials with thoughtful design to create a bright, breezy, and uplifting landmark for the community. Its colourful, ad hoc aesthetic reflects the character of Jaywick Sands, while its layout and facilities respond directly to local needs.
The development includes:
24 affordable business units for start ups, makers, and small enterprises
- A covered market hall supporting local traders and year round events
- A café and community gathering space
- Flexible event and training rooms
- Improved public realm, including seating, planting, and communal areas
- Sustainable features such as air source heat pumps and sustainable drainage systems
Together, these elements created a vibrant civic hub that supported employment, entrepreneurship, and social connection, helping to build a more resilient future for Jaywick Sands.
Our Role as Quantity Surveyors
We are proud to have supported this transformative project as Quantity Surveyors, working closely with the client, design team, and contractor to ensure the scheme was delivered efficiently, economically, and to the highest standard.
Our services included:
- Cost planning and budget management
- Procurement advice and tender documentation
- Contract administration
- Financial reporting and risk management
- Final account negotiation
Throughout the project, we worked to safeguard value for the client while enabling the design team’s vision, ensuring that Sunspot could deliver maximum social impact within a carefully managed budget.
A landmark for Jaywick Sands and a model for community led regeneration
Sunspot stands today as a powerful example of how thoughtful design, meaningful engagement, and collaborative delivery can create lasting change. Its success demonstrates what is possible when regeneration is rooted in local identity and driven by the needs of the people it serves.
We are honoured to have contributed to a project that continues to receive national recognition and, more importantly, is making a real difference to the lives of local residents.
Building images courtesy of Steve Brading Photography.
Award images courtesy of Rifkin & Livesey.
