Littlehampton’s bench shortlisted for architecture prize

The Longest Bench, which runs along the seafront, has been short-listed for a prestigious RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) award.

Twenty-six projects, designed by chartered architects, across the south east were entered, and 12 short-listed following a visit from an expert panel.

Steven Harding, director of RIBA south/south east region, said: “This year’s judges have had a very difficult, but hugely enjoyable, task in producing this short-list.

“Once again the RIBA Awards are showcasing some fantastic buildings around the region – everything from schools to a bench that seats 300 people.”

“We will now decide which projects go forward to receive RIBA Awards. In the meantime, getting short-listed is a great achievement and the teams behind all these buildings deserve many congratulations.”

The winners, which will then be eligible for the RIBA Stirling Prize, will be announced on May 19.

Designed by Studio Weave, with help from Connaught Junior School pupils, the bench was opened to the public last summer, and since then hundreds of residents and visitors have had their names and messages engraved on a slat.

Other projects on the short list include Bexhill High School, the Performing Arts Centre, in Sevenoaks, and The Esplanade, in Dover