Orkney operator Neil Stevenson has been recognised in the British Business Awards for his creation of Kirkwall’s smart new venue, Garden Square.
Stevenson, of Kirkjuvagr Limited, was shortlisted for Entrepreneur of the Year for building the entertainment-led development, which opened in 2025 to help ‘reshape Kirkwall town centre’s leisure and night-time economy’.
The British Business Awards, sponsored by Royal Bank of Scotland and NatWest Group, were held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre last week.
Stevenson’s shortlisting, alongside the best of the mainland business community, was said to acknowledge an ‘exceptional entrepreneur who can showcase outstanding vision, leadership and entrepreneurial flair in founding and advancing a business’.
Stevenson’s Garden Square has brought three stand-out entertainment offerings to Kirkwall – the licensed bowling alley and arcade venue ‘Lanes’; the central sheltered ‘Garden’, which hosts street food and regular family events; and ‘Rapture’, a nightlife space designed for dancing and live music.
Stevenson said: “Being shortlisted for Entrepreneur of the Year at the British Business Awards was a real honour, and I’m genuinely grateful for the recognition.
“It’s a category that celebrates vision and leadership, and to be considered alongside so many impressive businesses was brilliant. I didn’t take home the award on the night, but I’m proud of what the nomination says about the journey we’re on at Garden Square and what we’re building in Kirkwall.”
Royal Bank of Scotland has supported Stevenson across a range of projects, most recently backing his ambition for the Garden Square development, working with him to help turn plans into progress and support continued growth.
The British Business Awards ceremony was introduced with remarks from its patron Sir Bob Geldof and hosted by comedians Rob Brydon and Elaine C Smith. Attendees were also treated to a keynote address from actor, filmmaker, and humanitarian, George Clooney.
Relationship manager at Royal Bank of Scotland, Margaret Keenan, noted that another of its Orkney customers, Orbital Marine Power Limited, had also been shortlisted for Green Business of the Year at the awards.
Keenan said: “It’s fantastic to see two of our customers in Orkney being shortlisted for such renowned awards.
“Their drive, ambition and commitment to building standout businesses that create real impact are exactly the qualities that strengthen our local economy and shape a more sustainable future. It’s a real privilege to be able to support them on their journeys.”
