The competition was coordinated with the help of Charles Rattray of The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture at The Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen.

Some 16 pre-selected architects were sent an Architectural Brief with an invitation to submit a resume describing the work of their practice and what it might contribute to our project.  A shortlist of 5 were thoroughly briefed and asked to submit a proposal and a presentation of models and drawings for the new Community Centre.  These were exhibited in the Community Hall and the former manse in Collieston and our community was asked to comment on them.

This helped to ensure that the judging panel of architects and community representatives was able to take full account of the community's views in selecting 2 designs to go forward to the final stage of the competition.

A secret ballot was held of all householders and residents of Collieston and Slains aged 16 and over to determine the winning architectural practice.