The winners of the 2026 WPA Awards were announced at our annual members dinner at Oulton Hall Hotel, Leeds on 6 May.

The highlight of a very enjoyable evening, these Awards showcased the quality standards, professionalism and commitment required to produce and sell treated wood successfully. From a landmark restoration project to outstanding operational excellence and individual leadership the winners represent the very best examples of excellence in our sector.

Project of the Year – Tinside Lido

The restoration and enhancement of Tinside Lido, Plymouth, stood out as a deserving winner for Project of the Year. Combining heritage sensitivity with modern performance requirements, the project demonstrated how treated wood can play a vital role in preserving iconic public spaces while delivering long-term durability in a high-profile coastal setting. The quality of execution and attention to detail showcased the versatility and resilience of Accsys Technologies ‘Accoya’ and ‘Tricoya’ modified wood in a high-profile coastal setting.

Quality Wood Treater – Bond Timber

Bond Timber, Trerulefoot, Cornwall, earned recognition as quality wood treater of the year for its continued commitment to compliance with WPA Benchmark QAS standards, and customer service confidence. The award reflects the company’s investment in third-party quality assurance and employee and customer communication about selling and using treated wood that’s fit for purpose.

Best Kept Treatment Plant – WJ Group, Rochester

The award for Best Kept Treatment Plant went to WJ Group, Rochester, recognising the exceptional housekeeping standards maintained at this low and high pressure preservative treatment site. Cleanliness, organisation, environmental stewardship and operational discipline are all evident at this first-class facility. The award underlines the importance of maintaining treatment plants that not only operate efficiently but also reflect the professionalism and high standards required to deliver correctly treated wood.

Treated Wood Champion of the Year – Ben Parton

The evening’s individual honour was awarded to Ben Parton, managing director of CJ Timber Sourcing (CJTS), Ruthin. Ben was recognised for his passion for promoting the quality of treated wood produced by CJTS and his enthusiasm and commitment to educating buyers and end users in the do’s and don’ts of choosing and using treated wood correctly.

WPA Chairman Steve Young said: “These awards recognise the strength and diversity of wood protection technology and celebrate the organisations and individuals who work continuously to enhance the reputation and future of pretreated wood across the UK. It was great to see so many WPA members enjoying the evening’s events. A big thank you to all our sponsors without whose support our annual dinner and Awards would not be possible.”

Read about our conference sessions in the next issue of Fencing News.