TWO building projects in Taunton have been highly commended in the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors South West Awards 2016.

The initiative aims to showcase the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment.

A residential regeneration scheme of affordable housing in Ruskin Close and Wordsworth Drive saw 66 sustainable apartments provided with photovoltaic panels.

The judges said: “The scheme demonstrates effective, economically justified and sustainably specified regeneration and acts as a catalyst for further and similar schemes.”

The new Somerset Pavilion at the Cooper Associates County Ground scooped its accolade in the tourism and leisure section.

The project comprises covered seating behind the bowler's arm, bar and entertainment area, corporate and media facilities and roof top viewing and will allow international cricket to be staged in Taunton.

The judges said: “We consider that this scheme fully deserves to be recognised for its importance at local, national and international level.

"It has encompassed the provision of a range of facilities for every aspect of cricket spectatorship within the context of a meticulously considered design which fits well into its cultural and physical environment.”