Petra plans scoop prestigious award

The team behind ambitious plans to make infrastructural improvements to Petra while safeguarding the historical site have landed an accolade.

A project aimed at improving the experience for those taking luxury holidays in Jordan has been given the 2012 American Planning Association's (APA) Pierre L'Enfant International Planning Award, the Jordan Times reports.

Leaders at the APA were impressed by the Strategic Plan for the Petra Region in Jordan, which they feel balances the need to make necessary upgrades in order to attract more visitors with the importance of protecting significant historical landmarks.

Co-chair of the awards jury and APA board director Marie York said: "This plan is a critical guide to the preservation of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World."

Jordan tourism chiefs have stated that Petra is undoubtedly the country's most valuable treasure and primary visitor attraction. They said that seeing the intricate rock carvings first-hand is "an awe-inspiring experience".