A St Albans leisure centre won ‘Most Sustainable Construction’ at the biennial Building Futures Awards held last month.

Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre, which was rebuilt in 2012, was awarded for its attention to detail and sustainability.

Award judge John Pratley, co-founding Partner of sustainableBYdesign LLP, said: "The attention to detail in the design and construction of Westminster Lodge is self-evident.

"The project is a great example of the benefits which can accrue from an exceptionally high level of collaboration between the client, architect, builder and technical specialists. Of particular note is the great use of daylight in the two main pool-halls and the pragmatic and sensible approach to the design of the building services such as combined heat and power, ventilation heat recovery and re-use of filter backwash water.

"Overall the team has created a stunningly beautiful sustainable building, which will be of benefit to the residents of St Albans for decades to come."

Councillor Mike Wakely, Portfolio Holder for Sports, Leisure and Heritage, St Albans City and District Council, said: "The council is delighted that Westminster Lodge Leisure Centre has been recognised as a highly sustainable building.

"Our aim was for the leisure centre to contribute to the local area through a wide range of facilities and an attractive visual appearance without impacting adversely on the environment.

"The project team has worked exceptionally well in collaboration with the local community to make this happen."