GOOD building design is to be encouraged across East Cleveland with the incentive of an awards scheme.

Plaques and certificates will be awarded to winners by an independent panel of judges.

Alan Adams, conservation and design manager with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: "Good design should be the aim of all those involved in the development process, and should be encouraged everywhere."

The emphasis will be on designs which contribute to high standards and serve as an example to others.

The awards scheme will be open to developments completed between January 1, 1997 and March 31 this year. It will operate on a two-year cycle, but will exclude the North York Moors National Park.

Entries for this year's competition must be submitted by June 30 and judging will take place next month.