SOUTH Belfast building projects, which range from social housing to regenerated listed properties, are among those shortlisted for a prestigious architectural award ceremony.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards 2012 have nominated several buildings in South Belfast for the awards out of over 20 finalists from across the North.

This year in a new category for Design and Innovation the Queen’s University Sports Facilities building has been nominated while improvements to social housing in Camden Street, close to the university, have been recognised in the category for Building Conservation.

Meanwhile, other projects in line for awards include the Riddell Hall at QUB, the new Lyric Theatre and the Whitehall Tobacco Works building on Sandy Row.

One building will also win the overall prize for Northern Ireland while category winners go forward to compete against UK and international entrants.

The winners will be announced in May, with the Grand Final ceremony taking place in London in October.

Speaking of the newest category in the competition, Judging Chairman Alistair Dunn said: “This throws the spotlight on creative and imaginative building projects. It ensures that the RICS awards continue to reflect the scope and expertise of our building professionals.

“Sustainability remains a major focus for the awards and should be an important part of every entry. The high standard and overall number of entries is testimony to the tenacity and ingenuity of property and construction professionals in challenging economic times.”