HTA Planning was appointed by Charterhouse Property Group to lead the planning strategy for Oxford Innovation Park – a new employment campus in the Littlemore area, adjacent to Oxford Science Park. At the heart of the proposals is a response to Oxford’s exceptional growth as a centre for technology, life sciences and innovation. Although the site had previously been considered for housing, we drew on a detailed understanding of planning history, economic strategy and land use policy to successfully reposition it for commercial development. Our planning case demonstrated a clear need for additional office and dry laboratory space to support the city’s high-growth knowledge and bioscience sectors. Working alongside Spratley & Partners, we helped develop a biophilic masterplan that delivers high-quality workspace in a green and connected setting. The site’s character is shaped by its relationship with the Grade II listed former hospital complex – a heritage asset which informed the form, layout and materials strategy of the new proposals. This sensitive approach helped secure the support of both Oxford City Council and the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership. A key planning success was our ability to balance delivery ambition with contextual understanding – aligning economic need with place potential. Improved connectivity with the neighbouring science park reinforces the area’s emerging employment cluster and sets the foundations for future innovation-led growth.
