Quay West, the prestigious development by Heritage Homes overlooking Douglas Marina on North Quay, is on the way to achieving international iconic status. “It could teach house builders on the mainland a thing or two about creating luxury homes,” was the accolade delivered by a panel of judges at the prestigious ‘Best New Homes in Britain’ awards organised by What House? The judges were unanimous in giving Quay West the Bronze Award in the ‘Best Apartment Scheme’ category while Heritage Homes parent group Dandara took the highly sought after Gold Award in the same category for its Portelet Bay development at St Brelade, Jersey. The What House? Awards, now in their 30th year, are considered to be the Oscars of the house building industry and competition for an award is very high. This year’s glittering ceremony was held at the Grosvenor House hotel in London and attracted over 1,000 property professionals from all over the UK. Dandara managing director Seamus Nugent said: “The award for Quay West is a fantastic achievement and is recognition for the high standards and outstanding design we are consistently delivering here on the Isle of Man and in all our developments throughout the UK.” He added: “It recognises that contemporary architecture, coupled with a high specification, can enhance the capital’s built environment. For Quay West to be held up by the judges as one of the best examples in the UK of what can be achieved is a truly outstanding accolade for the whole team involved in the development.” In their citation the judges said: “As part of the regeneration of the waterfront in the capital, Douglas, the company has produced Quay West, a mixed-use scheme of office, residential and commercial space, right opposite the marina and only minutes from the main financial district.” The judges said they particularly liked the use of both local Manx stone and treated timber that will turn silvery with time and has been processed to resist the detrimental effects of salt-water. They described the Dandara Group as “masters of the smart courtyard”. They concluded: “The super-size balconies and terraces (another commendable Dandara Group touch), and the clever design that means a number of rooms open onto these outside spaces, makes Quay West a fine place for professional couples, downsizers and investors alike.” There are a small number of two and three bedroom apartments remaining, along with the fully furnished, ready-to-move-into penthouse. Prices start at ?335,000 while the penthouse is ?1.995m. Ends