Black Country property developer Selbourne Homes is celebrating after winning a major industry ‘Oscar’ for transforming a derelict row of shops in Wordsley into a stylish contemporary development.

The Hagley-based firm’s Rhubarb scheme beat off fierce competition from across the central region to scoop the coveted title of ‘regional winner, medium development of the year category’ in the Premier Guarantee Excellence Awards.

Run by Premier Guarantee, a provider of structural warranties, building control and developer support services, the Premier Guarantee Excellence Awards are designed to recognise the very best of the UK housing market.

Premier Guarantee spokesman Colin Campbell said: “We received our highest number of entries this year and the standard has been nothing short of exceptional.

“After our judges had visited all of the shortlisted entries, they felt that Selbourne Homes displayed excellence in technical competency, coupled with an ability to demonstrate first-rate project management skills and high levels of customer service – a very worthy winner.”

Situated just off Wordsley High Street, Rhubarb comprises 23 properties ranging in size from three-bedroom houses to one-bedroom apartments.

Every home has been designed to a high specification and the site’s popularity with buyers is proven by the fact that only two, three-bedroom properties remain unsold.

“This award is testament to the dedication of everyone involved in the project and as well as being good news for Selbourne, it’s also good news for Wordsley,” said Selbourne’s managing director, Gavin Warr.

“We wanted to build a scheme that was both aspirational and affordable. Together with our team, the majority of whom are from the local area, we invested time and effort in creating a design for Rhubarb that not only transformed a derelict eyesore but also benefitted the surrounding community and we’re extremely proud of what we’ve achieved. ”

Operating across the Black Country, Selbourne Homes has recently been awarded planning permission for a courtyard development of 14 two and three-bedroom properties in Stourbridge.

The company is also in the process of seeking planning permission for a scheme in Wordsley and another scheme in Kingswinford.