RINGWOOD Gateway square and building are in the running to scoop a design award.

The new square and the building which houses key council services have been nominated in the Solent Design Awards 2014.

Shortlisted projects are up for three awards: a Quality Places Award for the best scheme, a Best Urban Design Award and a People's Choice Award which is put to a public vote.

Deputy leader of New Forest District Council and chairman of the Ringwood Gateway project board Councillor Edward Heron said: “We’re delighted that this successful partnership project has been recognised in this way.

“We’re up against some stiff competition, so I hope that local residents who have welcomed the scheme will vote for it.”

People can vote online at solentdesignawards.org.uk until November 3.

The scheme incorporates carved wooden structures and seating created by a timber sculptor and local blacksmith artist. The seating was made using New Forest oak and incorporates designs by Ringwood residents and schoolchildren, complemented by woodland-style planting.

Sustainability was a priority for the designers and is a factor considered by the awards judges.

The building has natural ventilation and light and also a mechanical ventilation system, air source heat pumps and a green sedum roof and the square is drained to soakaway.

The building was officially opened by HRH the Duke of Kent in October 2012 and has so far played host to more than 40 ceremonies conducted by the county council’s registration service.

The square has become a hub for the town’s outdoor events.