The sun might not have been shining, but Saltaire leaders were still confident the village would sparkle when it was checked out for a national competition today.

Six members of The Academy of Urbanism visited Saltaire to prepare a report for Academy judges about the World Heritage Site which is shortlisted for its Great Neighbourhood Award.

Saltaire is up against the Grand Canal Quarter in Dublin, which will be visited on Friday, and Glasgow’s West End, which is being assessed tomorrow.

The three finalist areas were drawn up by Academy members from a list of around ten.

Tim Challans, the lead assessor from the self-funded Academy, which is made up of industry experts, said the team of six was looking at more than the architecture of Saltaire. “What we’re looking at today is how does Saltaire work as a neighbourhood – it’s not just about the buildings, it’s about how it works,” he said.

Last year Bournville in Birmingham was shortlisted for the same award. Mr Challans said it was similar to Saltaire in that it was a “model village” built around the Cadbury’s factory, similar to Saltaire and Salts Mill.

He said: “I’m looking forward to seeing how new development works in Saltaire and am interested to know what people think about living here and working here.”

Assessor and design consultant Tony Wyatt said: “I’ve never been to Saltaire before and I’ve always wanted to come.”

The Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Joanne Dodds, was part of a Bradford Council team escorting the visitors.

She said: “It’s a fabulous place and it’s great it’s been recognised. It’s about the community, how people live and being a good neighbour.”

The team was taken on a walking tour of the area and met staff from the NHS Trust, Shipley College, the station and Victoria Hall.

They also visited Saltaire Road and Shipley Glen Tramway. Mr Challans said: “We try to pop in to some shops and grab people to talk to. We usually try to talk to taxi drivers too.”