A NORTH-EAST city has won recognition for cultural and commercial work carried out during an extensive regeneration programme.

Judges of the Association of Town Centre Management Awards heaped accolades on Newcastle's Grainger Town, presenting it with the main prize, the Best Completed Project.

It was praised for its "outstanding housing, business and commercial developments" and also for the improvements made to the area's environmental quality.

Grainger Town was also lauded for its commitment and contribution to the arts, culture, tourism and marketing, especially the installation of public works of art and atmospheric lighting schemes.

In a second competition, the historic heart of the city was also named as joint winner of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Northern Branch Awards, focusing on its good practice in partnership working and the conservation of historic buildings.

A commemorative certificate was presented to the scheme by Vincent Goodstadt, national president of the RTPI, who commented on the high quality environmental and commercial improvements and the regeneration of residential properties in the city.

Funded by Newcastle City Council and regional development agency One NorthEast, Grainger Town's redevelopment has been shortlisted as a finalist for the national RTPI Planning Awards with the winner being announced in February.

City centre manager David Usher said: "I have been delighted to work alongside the businesses and residents of Grainger Town in securing the area's future as a major commercial and cultural part of Newcastle."