THE designer of the station for the Pepsi-Max Big One has won a top award from the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Architect Philip G England designed the structure to fit into an extremely confined area between existing rides and over a cutting, the idea being that the station is seen as part of the track and reflects the shape of its site and the activities within it.

It is designed for a maximum flow of 1,700 passengers an hour and the loading station can hold 150 people at a time.

The impressed panel of judges said: "This building is seriously fun.

"Internally, it offers a surprisingly calm space, a lofty backdrop to contain the snaking queue of quaking bodies of the descendants, with views out to the funfair beyond and the slow rise and rapid descent of the roller coaster.

"This little building makes a fine contribution to Blackpool as it arrives at the centenary of its Pleasure Beach."

A Pleasure Beach spokeswoman said: "We are all absolutely delighted to receive such a valued reward and this award seems very fitting in our 100th year.

"This can now be added to the growing list of recognition for our quality of architecture over the years which includes Joseph Emberton's casino built in 1939."

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