It's official - Chichester is a great town. The recognition came at the Academy of Urbanism's annual awards announced recently at a special ceremony in Liverpool.

Chichester was one of three towns shortlisted for this year's 'Great Town of the Year' category by the Academy whose membership includes many of the best-known architects, planners and developers working throughout Britain and Europe.

Twelve nominations were received for the Great Town category, with Chichester, Richmond (Yorkshire) and Stirling making the final three. Richmond scooped the title.

Councillor John Ridd, Chairman of Chichester District Council, said: "It was a great honour to reach the shortlist of three towns, and we congratulate Richmond on its success. However the judges were much impressed by Chichester and our strong partnerships in working together for this fine city.

"Various presentations were made to the Academy's judges, who visited Chichester earlier this year. District Council officers and Cllr David Siggs, Mayor of Chichester, told them more about the city; Sarah Stannard, vice-principal (marketing and development) of Chichester College talked of it as a place to learn; and Iain Shepherd of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry described its role as a business centre. Richard Cole, of Chichester Residents' Advisory Group, praised it for its rich architectural heritage and as a marvellous place in which to live."

The Academy's assessment team said: "Chichester is a relatively small city that punches well above its weight. With ancient walls dating back to Roman times, a cathedral that's a landmark for miles around and an easily legible network of streets dotted with historic buildings, it has a very distinctive sense of place...."

The Academy of Urbanism presented each shortlisted place with a designated poem by the Academy's poet, Ian McMillan. Chichester also received a sketch of the Market Cross.

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