England and Wales's new rural buildings are to be entered in a contest to find the country's finest conversions and developments.

The awards, which have been devised by the County Land and Business Association (CLA) and Knight Frank, aims to showcase high quality design and workmanship.

Traditional farm buildings, sporting facilities, tourism projects and holiday accommodation can all be entered for the awards.

David Fursdon, CLA president said: "We should be proud of the way in which the new built heritage of our countryside is evolving, stimulated by diversification.”

“This scheme highlights this and shows the forward thinking nature of rural businesses.  Quite often they are at the cutting edge of design but balance that with an understanding of the importance of their environment."

Sandy Douglas, head of Knight Frank Rural Consultancy, said: "There has been a beneficial shift in the use of rural buildings, providing diversified revenue for the landowner, new uses for old and often these important buildings contribute to the community.”

"As well as looking for good design the judges will take into account projects which fit in with their environment, benefit the local community and have considered energy efficiency."

Awards are made regionally across two categories – new and converted buildings.  Entries are judged to a standard, not competitively. 

For more information on the scheme and details of how to enter visit http://www.cla.org.uk/CLA_Centenary/Rural_Buildings_Awards/