International Award for the Waikawa Integrated Catchment Management Plan

The project has won the Commonwealth Association of Planners Award for Planning for Conservation of the Built & Natural Environment and Cultural Heritage.

After being named a Highly Commended project at the Resource Management Law Association (RMLA) Awards; the Waikawa Integrated Catchment Management Plan has been recognised for Outstanding Planning Achievement in the Commonwealth.

Under the umbrella of the Commonwealth of Nations, the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP) brings together 30 national professional planning organizations around the world, which represent almost 40,000 professional planners.

In the Award citation, committee chair Fazle Reza Sumon, past President of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners said:

"The [Waikawa Integrated Catchment Management] Plan enhances environmental well-being and enriches the community's social, cultural, and economic landscape. The proposal advocates for the sustainable preservation of local water bodies and for the protection of surrounding catchments. It introduces effective measures to improve ecological vitality and expand recreational opportunities. Additionally, it serves as a dynamic platform for sharing values and insights, fostering innovative projects, monitoring progress, and celebrating collective achievements."

Criteria for the Planning for the Conservation of the Built & Natural Environment and Cultural Heritage category notes: The cultural and natural heritage of places is often fragile and threatened by growth pressure or, conversely, by disinvestment. This award will recognise the work of planners in conserving buildings, areas, or landscapes and aiding in their interpretation.

It is the second time in three years that a Boffa Miskell project has won the Planning for the Conservation of the Built & Natural Environment and Cultural Heritage category. The Milford Opportunities Project (Stage 2) Masterplan won the award in 2022.