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Top awards for National Waterfront Museum

The National Waterfront Museum, Swansea has picked up two top awards for its architecture and design.

In the last few days the £33 million attraction has been selected for a RIBA award (The Royal Institute of British Architects), and has also received a commendation as part of the Structural Steel Design Awards.

RIBA Awards are given for buildings that have high architectural standards and make a substantial contribution to the local environment.

Both awards recognised the seamless link between the Grade II listed warehouse and the new galleries. Judges for the steel commendation said:  “The result is a classic of its type.”

The Museum, which has attracted more than 140,000 visitors since it opened last October was designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects.

The National Waterfront Museum was awarded an £11 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund – the largest grant ever awarded in Wales. It is a partnership between Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales and the City & County of Swansea and Incorporates a Grade II listed warehouse linked to a spectacular brand new glass and slate building. The Museum is situated in Swansea's Maritime Quarter and forms part of the regeneration of the area. The remainder of the funding came from the Welsh Assembly Government, Wales Tourist Board, Welsh Development Agency, EU Objective One funding and other private donors and sponsors. Dr Richard Bevins, the Museum's Project Manager, said it was excellent  news. “We are delighted that the National Waterfront Museum has been recognised by both sets of judges. This is a clear endorsement of the impact that the scheme has had on the regeneration of the Marina area, and of the quality of the architecture and design.”

Leader of City & County of Swansea, Cllr Chris Holley, said: “I am delighted the Museum is getting national recognition. It is truly a world-class museum with outstanding architecture. This is wonderful news for the Museum and Swansea.”

Amgueddfa Cymru - National Museum Wales operates seven national museums across Wales. These are National Museum Cardiff, St Fagans: National History Museum, National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon, Big Pit: National Coal Museum, Blaenafon, National Wool Museum, Dre-fach Felindre, National Slate Museum, Llanberis and the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea.

Entry to all Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales sites is free, thanks to the support of the Welsh Assembly Government.