A Cumbrian property development was the only project in the north to be recognised at a national building awards.

Maris Properties development at Longburgh, near Carlisle, was highly commended for Best Small New Housing Development at the LABC Building Excellence Awards Grand Finals in London last month.

Established in 2002, Maris Properties is based in Crofton, north of Carlisle.

Stephen Lavery, director at Maris Properties, said: “Moving forward it is important to our company that we continue to innovate and respond to our changing environment.

"We are currently working on a development of seven properties in the village of Great Orton.

"Here our in-house designs embrace the principles of inclusivity and longevity in a response to changing demographics and the need for flexible and sustainable design.

“This national award shows just how far we have come since establishing Maris Properties in 2002 and our journey continues.”

Fellow director David Lavery said: “To be recognised by a national panel of industry experts for our creativity, sustainable credentials and cooperative working ethos is a testament to the professionalism of all our supporting design teams and contractors and represents a fantastic achievement for all involved.”

Katy Lavery design project manager for Maris Properties said: “The standard of all the projects nominated were exceptional.

"To accept an award alongside multimillion pound projects such as the 'Tottenham Experiences' and the King’s Cross 'Coal Drop Yard' regeneration project is illustrative of the skills and capacity we have in the construction industry in this region."

Paul Everall CBE, chief Executive at LABC, added: "These awards are different.

"They aren’t about good looks or fancy design, although many winners incorporate both.

"They are about quality and standards.

"No other building awards look at how well buildings are put together from start to finish and the skills and competencies of those who design and construct them. We are very proud of everyone involved – they show the way ahead for the industry."