Ilfracombe's watersports centre has scooped a regional award at the Michelmores Property Awards 2024.

North Devon Council's Larkstone Watersports Hub won the Leisure and Tourism Project of the Year at the awards ceremony at Sandy Park Conference Centre in Exeter on 27 June.

The awards, hosted by actor and comedian Lucy Porter, celebrated outstanding property and construction projects in the South West across 11 categories.

The watersports centre was recognised for its work in regenerating and revitalising a unique and sensitive location at Larkstone Cove, offering improved access for watersports activities that provide social and economic benefits for the local community and visitors to the area, as well as a destination café which offers stunning views across Ilfracombe Harbour.

The award was collected by officers from the council's property and harbour teams alongside representatives from the wider project team who helped bring the watersports centre to fruition: Grainge Architects, Pearce Construction, Hills, Craddys, Hulley and Kirkwood, Hop Consulting, Teignmouth Maritime Services and Aquatonics.

Head of Property, Place and Regeneration at North Devon Council, Sarah Jane Mackenzie-Shapland, said: "We are delighted that the Larkstone Watersports Hub has won the Leisure and Tourism Project of the Year at the Michelmores Property Awards. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in bringing this fantastic facility to life, from our property and harbour teams, to the contractors who made up the wider project team.

"It is also wonderful recognition for Ilfracombe and the many people who have supported this ambitious and complex project. We are thrilled it is proving to be a popular asset for the local community and visitors alike."

Ilfracombe Watersports Hub opened in July 2023, giving new homes to three of the town's local clubs with boat storage, a slipway for safe and easy access to the water, and disabled access and facilities. The wider public can take part in kayaking, stand up paddleboard and coasteering sessions through commercial operators, while the Lime Kiln Café offers food and drink with a stunning view of Ilfracombe Harbour.

The Michelmores Property Awards celebrate the best property, development and construction projects in the South West, bringing together all those who contribute to the region’s exciting property, real estate and construction sectors. The competition recognises a wide range of commercial and residential projects. 

More information about the awards, including a full list of the 2024 winners, can be found at the Michelmores website.