A joint venture by two Housing Associations, Servite and Hillcrest, has resulted in the presentation of an award at The Montrose Society's Annual Awards for Architecture event. The award, in the Conservation/Restoration category, was given in recognition of work carried out at the Patons Mill Development in Montrose.

John Mulloy, Hillcrest Group Chief Executive, said: "Our development at Paton's Mill is of particular interest because of the restoration work involved which sustains an area of architectural and historical merit. We are thrilled to receive this award in recognition of the quality of our development."


The development was started in May 2001 and completed in November 2002 consisting of 78 homes. The architects were Wellwood Leslie and the builders W H Brown Construction Ltd. The property, a former flax mill and more recently a bonded warehouse had lain derelict for a number of years. Severe dilapidation had occurred with some areas structurally unsound.

Andrew Kilpatrick, Servite Business Development Director, added: "We are delighted to receive this award from the Montrose Society, not only in recognition of the quality of the development but also because it is gratifying to be able to preserve a part of local history and architectural heritage for future generations, whilst at the same time providing much needed affordable housing for the Montrose area."

The Montrose Society was founded in 1956 to protect and research the historic architecture of the town and to encourage high standards in design and quality of new buildings and restored properties. The award was presented at an awards ceremony on Friday May 9.

(GK/JM)