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Sea Cadets sail into final of renowned RICS

Middlesbrough Sea Cadets are celebrating that their new fit-for-purpose headquarters has been shortlisted for a prestigious RICS Award following a generous regeneration project.

The cadets’ first permanent base since their inception more than 70 years ago, East Lodge within Albert Park, has been shortlisted in the category of Community Benefit in the renowned RICS North East Renaissance Awards 2012.

East Lodge was transformed from a derelict building, which stood empty and vandalised for more than 10 years into a new state-of-the-art facility.

The development project was orchestrated by regeneration specialists Python Properties, which redesigned existing plans for the lodge and brought onboard 12 regional firms and organisations that all worked not-for-profit and at cost or less.

The awards showcase the region’s top projects and celebrate the most inspirational regional initiatives and developments in land, property, construction and the environment.

Petty officer John Rielly, officer in charge of Middlesbrough Sea Cadets, said: “We are delighted East Lodge has been shortlisted for a RICS Award; it is testament to the hard work and commitment of the cadets as well as all the companies that helped to make it happen.

“After 70 years of never having a permanent base East Lodge is enabling us to expand as a unit, maximise the experience of cadets and ensure we are fulfilling our boating commitments.”

The development included the refurbishment and conversion of the existing property, building an extension, hard standing and jetty.

Martin Johnson of Python Properties played a key role in the development of East Lodge after he was made the new vice president of Middlesbrough Sea Cadets in July 2011.

Inspired by the sea cadets story he encouraged contractors and consultants to support the charity due to their important role in developing young people, three months later the project was complete and the cadets had taken residency.

The redevelopment was made possible by Python Properties, Middlesbrough College, Endeavour Property Services, GW Architectural, Orangery Associates, Close Granger Gray & Wilkin, H E Woolley, C & M Carpets & Flooring, Energy Efficient Windows & Conservatories, Orchid Kitchens & Bedrooms, Elite Roller Shutters and Doors, C & B Blinds, and Leven Wrought Iron Work.

The cadets were temporarily based in West Lodge within the park, which had insufficient space and facilities. East Lodge will not only enable them to increase the number of cadets that can attend from 20 to 60 people but also provides easier access to the lake.

The nominations in each category span a range of companies and projects, from small schemes achieved by the vision of one person to globally recognised developments with significant budgets.

The cadets will find out if their unit has won at a special award ceremony on April 27th at the Civic Centre in Newcastle.

The cadets meet on a Monday and Thursday evenings from 7-9pm at East Lodge within Albert Park. For more information about joining the Middlesbrough Sea Cadets or becoming a member of staff please contact 01642 294349.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Morrison .