Bubbly business: Eric Morgan, chairman of Sanderson Townend & Gilbert, left, with Dawn Cranswick and Richard Clark, both of Project North East. David Usher, Newcastle city centre manager, right, presents the champagne prize.

Newcastle's 'Silicon Alley' has been awarded the Best Kept Building prize this month in the Cityclean campaign.

Project North East's buildings in the Pink Lane area have been commended for not only their multi-million pound refurbishment over the last few years, but the commitment and pride in keeping them clean, tidy and maintained at all times.

The organisation provides business support, broadband Internet access and property services to small businesses and has regenerated a previously-underused part of the city centre.

Eric Morgan, chairman of chartered surveyors Sanderson Townend and Gilbert, which sponsors the Best Kept Building award, said: "Project North East has cleaned up the buildings in the Pink Lane area to great effect, and its commitment to providing well maintained premises to fledgling businesses must be commended."

David Usher, Newcastle's city centre manager who is running the Cityclean campaign, said: "This is what the Best Kept Building competition is all about. I hope Project North East's pride in its premises and surroundings will encourage other businesses to follow its example."

Richard Clark, workspace director of Project North East, said: "A strong image is important in business, and a pleasant working environment, including the surrounding area, is an important part of that for both Project North East and our clients."

Cityclean was launched in late 1998 with the backing of Cityworks, Newcastle City Council and private sector sponsors.

Since then, new initiatives have been launched, raising public awareness of litter, graffiti, flyposting and greenery in Newcastle.

The scheme is open to retail, office and public buildings and restaurants or leisure premises within the city centre.