An environmentally-friendly building in Torfaen has scooped a prestigious design award.
The Eco-building in Cwmbran won a Constructing Excellence in Wales Award during a ceremony at the Celtic Manor, Newport.
The innovative, sustainable building on the Springvale Industrial Estate, beat off stiff competition from other organisations like Cowlin Construction and the City and County of Swansea, to win the Legacy Award- Sustainability.
Councillor John Cunningham, Executive Member for Operational Services and Performance, said: "We are delighted to receive the award. We were up against some stiff competition but I think we won through because the Eco-building is so unique and sustainable.
"We are very proud of the building which is an excellent example of "green" development."
The development is part of a project aimed at improving environmental management. Constructed from timber and insulated using local straw bales, the building is designed to have minimal environmental impact and to demonstrate the use of sustainable materials and building techniques.
Environmentally-friendly features include straw bale insulation, rainwater harvesting, photo-sensitive lighting, recycled cellulose insulation and a small photo-voltaic/wind turbine system.
The Eco-building is used as a venue for environmental seminars, workshops and demonstrations for local businesses. The building is also open to visitors and is available for events.
If you would like any information or if you would like to book the building for conferences email ecobuilding@torfaen.gov.uk|