YORK'S £19 million Hiscox building has been recognise as one of the best places to work in the North of England.

The insurance firm's new flagship office, which officially opened in December in Peasholme Green, was among the winners at the annual British Council for Offices (BCO) regional property sector awards.

The BCO awards programme recognises the highest quality developments and sets the standard for excellence in the regional and national office sector.

The Hiscox building was named as the Best Corporate Workplace in the North of England.

Judges were impressed by its sensitivity to the iconic cityscape, stating it reinvigorated the community while recognising its heritage. They described it as having "a thoughtful design" with features including a wide staircase that reflects the City Wall details "and in turn connects each employee back to York".

They said simple artwork also adorns the space, depicting the company’s business and heritage.

Judging chairman Andrew Woodhouse of Mott MacDonald, said: “The winners of the BCO Northern Awards are all ambitious projects that have been hand-picked from a selection of top quality entries.

"Entries were judged on a range of different factors including flexibility, sustainable construction, architectural flair and above all their effectiveness as a workplace.

"All winners should be proud to emerge as one of the best workspaces in the region.”

Richard Kauntze, chief executive of the BCO, said: “This year’s awards are testament to the quality and distinction of new office development in the North of England.

"The Hiscox Building is an outstanding example of how to bring both innovation and heritage together to create a stunning office development.

"Alongside the other buildings recognised at this year’s awards, this building sets a standard for future projects around the UK.”