National park entry markers up for award
Stone signs which let people know they are entering the Cairngorms National Park have been shortlisted for the President’s Award at this week’s Landscape Institute Awards in London.
This prestigious award is now in its sixth year and Ian White Associates Landscape Architects face tough competition from 24 others on the shortlist.
They’re also in the running for the Communications and Presentation Award and winners will be announced at a ceremony in London today (Thursday November 29).
Nick Bowen from Stirling-based Ian White Associates Landscape Architects said: “Having worked closely with the National Park over a 5-year period in the planning, design and installation of the entry marker project, the
design team are delighted that the project has been recognised on the national stage.
“We have drawn great satisfaction from the success of the markers in reinforcing the identity of the National Park, in a design that celebrates local materials and craftsmanship. Our aim was to set them unobtrusively into the beautiful landscapes of the Park, communicating a simple message in a timeless manner sympathetic to their environment.”
There are granite markers on the 29 entrances to the Park. The striking 3 metre wide markers on main road entrances are made up of three panels of silver granite and feature the Cairngorms National Park brand in black granite inlay. Boulder-style markers featuring just the Osprey image from the Park brand are on other road entrances as well as the Speyside Way and National Cycle Route 7.
Over 10 million vehicles every year pass by a Cairngorms National Park entry marker.
CNPA Sustainable Tourism and Visitor Experience Programme Manager, Pete Crane, said: “We’re thrilled the entry markers have been shortlisted for an award like this. First impressions are important and we have something which gives a real sense of arrival to the National Park.
“They’re exceptional quality, crafted from Deeside granite and like the National Park are strong, incredibly beautiful and be around for a long time.”
