Saltaire one of England's Great Places

More than 11,000 people voted on a shortlist of 10 places, leading to Saltaire finishing above Brindleyplace, Bath, Letchworth Garden City, Peak District, Kielder Water and Forest Park, Bristol and the Kings Cross Regeneration.

The World Heritage Site-designated village finished third nationally, narrowly missing out on the first and second place to LiverpooL Waterfront and Thame High Street respectively, after being shortlisted by a panel of eight judges.

Bradford Council�s Heritage Champion, Coun Val Slater, said: �While we are disappointed not to win outright, coming top in Yorkshire and third nationally in this competition is a great achievement.

�Coming on the back of the hugely successful World Heritage UK conference recently held in the village and many other awards the village has won, it shows we are on the right track with our management of the historic site for residents, businesses and visitors.

�It�s no secret that Saltaire is one of the greatest places in England but it�s nice to get official recognition of that fact.�

Jennifer Winyard, Chair of RTPI Yorkshire, said: �I am not surprised that Saltaire was voted among the top three places in England�s Great Places competition.

�It is clearly a much appreciated and loved place by local people. Sensitive and skilful planning from the local authorities has protected the essence of this unique historic settlement and kept it a beautiful place.

�It has also enjoyed economic regeneration supported by good planning and partnerships.�