A REFURBISHED promenade has received an award in recognition of its design.

The Groves Riverside Promenade in Chester has won the Paviors Award for Excellence in the design and construction of paving.

Work was carried out on it in early 2011 as a result of a partnership between Cheshire West and Chester Council and Chester Renaissance.

The completed works included replacing and widening tarmac footpaths with British York stone, planting six large semi-mature lime trees, 100 benches replaced or refurbished as well as new bins and signage.

The high standards and elegant design of the project were said to have impressed the judges, helping to secure the award for the city.

The project was also awarded the runner-up prize in the Pedestrian Environment category in the Local Government Awards 2012.

Cllr Lynn Riley, executive member for community and environment, said “The Groves Project is part of the larger One City Plan for Chester.

“This is one of the most popular areas of Chester and as an important asset it is essential it is maintained for both residents and visitors to enjoy.

“The Groves can be held up as a model project where we have invested in restoring the past splendour of the city to promote its future.”

The Worshipful Company of Paviors dates back to 1280, when Paviors were first made responsible for the repair and cleaning of London’s streets and pavements.

Today the principal object of the company is to further the ‘craft of paving’ in its modern context.

John Dance, Upper Warden of the Worshipful Company of Paviors’ Company who presented the award said: “We were very impressed with the works completed on The Groves. The quality materials and designs complement the historic area.”