The Backstage Centre, a world-class production and rehearsal venue in Purfleet built by Kier Construction, was Highly Commended at the British Construction Industry (BCI) Awards.

The BCI Awards are an established industry accolade recognising excellence in the delivery of building and civil engineering infrastructure projects.

With visits from members of the expert judging panel and finalists facing Dragon's Den-style interviews, the celebrated awards acknowledge quality across a range of disciplines.

The Backstage Centre was Highly Commended in the Building Project of the Year (£3m to £50m) category.

Antony Oliver, New Civil Engineer editorial director, commented: "Once again the British Construction Industry Awards have demonstrated that quality design and construction remains central to public and private sector infrastructure clients' ambitions.

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"As they strive to deliver better services to customers while reducing the cost of operating and maintaining assets, it is very clear that investment up front to improve the design and construction process pays massive dividends in the long run."

Part of High House Production Park, a unique new concept that brings a number of creative industries together on one site in Purfleet in the Thames Gateway, The Backstage Centre provides unique training facilities for 16 to 19-year-olds and professionals seeking recognised qualifications in offstage and backstage technical skills.

Kier Construction director Nick Bache commented: "We are delighted to have been Highly Commended at the prestigious BCI Awards for The Backstage Centre, the UK’s leading facility in backstage creative industries.

"Given that the Centre was built to provide unique training opportunities for 16 to 19-year-olds, we were particularly pleased that we were able to offer a number of work experience placements for the local school and college during the construction programme."

(CD/MH)