Woodbourne Group shortlisted for UK developer of the year
Woodbourne Group is delighted to announce that we have been shortlisted for two prestigious awards – Net Zero Pioneer and Developer of the Year at the UKREiiF Awards 2023. This dual recognition highlights the transformative impact of our work and reaffirms Woodbourne Group’s reputation as one of the most forward-thinking developers in the country.
The UKREiiF Awards 2023 highlights our ground-breaking Curzon Wharf development—set to become the world’s first mixed-use, net zero carbon-ready ecosystem. Woodbourne Group has been shortlisted as part of a national ceremony recognising the organisations shaping the future of the UK’s real estate, regeneration, and investment landscape.
Curzon Wharf Leading the Way in Net Zero Vision
At the heart of both shortlisting categories sits Curzon Wharf, our landmark £360 million masterplan that will redefine a major gateway into Birmingham.
Designed after more than five years of collaboration with Birmingham City Council, universities, and built-environment specialists, Curzon Wharf introduces a new benchmark for sustainable development—not just for the West Midlands, but for the UK as a whole.
As the world’s first mixed-use net zero carbon-ready development, Curzon Wharf combines:
- World-class life science and innovation space
- High-quality residential living, including Birmingham’s tallest tower
- Vast green spaces, canalside leisure and improved public realm
- Next-generation energy efficiency, with fossil fuels eliminated from the site
- A pedestrian-friendly, car-reduced design aligned with future mobility
This bold vision is why the project has been shortlisted for the Net Zero Pioneer award—recognising developments that significantly accelerate the UK’s transition to a decarbonised, resilient future.
Why Curzon Wharf Earned Recognition
The Net Zero Pioneer category celebrates developments that show leadership in sustainability, carbon reduction, and future-proof design. Curzon Wharf demonstrates these principles by:
- Incorporating advanced Passivhaus-inspired architecture
- Using heat pumps, decentralised energy solutions and photovoltaics
- Prioritising biophilic landscaping, sky gardens and outdoor wellbeing spaces
- Supporting active travel through safe cycle networks and pedestrian routes
- Creating a resilient urban ecosystem built for long-term community health
These factors position Curzon Wharf not only as a standout contender for the award, but as a national exemplar for how cities can grow responsibly while improving quality of life for residents and visitors.
Committed to Sustainable Communities and Positive City Transformation
Being shortlisted for Developer of the Year at the UKREiiF Awards 2023 reflects Woodbourne Group’s sustained commitment to excellence, innovation, and delivering high-impact regeneration.
Our approach goes beyond construction. We develop projects that:
- Strengthen community identity
- Promote healthier, greener lifestyles
- Support emerging talent and innovation
- Enhance connectivity and economic growth
- Celebrate the cultural and environmental character of place
From Curzon Wharf, to our Garden City–accredited community at Canalside, Black Lake, to our ambitious venture capital arm Woodbourne Ventures, we are consistently pushing boundaries in the built environment.
This nomination underscores our position as a leading force in sustainable urban development.
Developer of the Year & Net Zero Pioneer
The UKREiiF Awards will take place on May 16th in Leeds, bringing together some of the most influential organisations and leaders across real estate, infrastructure, sustainability, and regeneration.
We are honoured to stand alongside an exceptional group of finalists making meaningful contributions to the future of the UK’s built environment.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the judging panel for recognising our work—and we congratulate all fellow finalists who share our mission of delivering impactful, future-focused development.
Woodbourne Group looks forward to celebrating the achievements of the industry and continuing to champion innovation, sustainability, and long-term value creation.