THE University of Brighton is a double finalist in a national awards scheme which recognises exceptional initiatives.

Community21 embeds the university’s school of architecture and design into a local and international sustainable development network.

It is a finalist in the community category of The Green Gown Awards, and Tom Parkes, a member of the university’s environment team, is shortlisted for the Sustainability Professional Award.

The awards recognise sustainability initiatives undertaken by universities and colleges, and are considered the most prestigious recognition of best practice within the further and higher education sectors.

Winners will be announced at a ceremony in Manchester on November 15.

David Wolff, director of the Community University Partnership Programme, said: “Community21 has helped many local communities and groups develop their thinking about want to do in the future.

“We are delighted with the acknowledgement of this good work.”

Tom Parkes joined the university’s environment team in 2014 as a recent graduate.

He assisted in the installation of three solar PV projects, including two ground-breaking roof lease schemes with Brighton Energy Cooperative.