“We’re looking for a stellar team to design a masterplan that responds to both Oxford’s housing needs, a place to live, work, and foster innovation and enterprise. We want to bring together the best minds in the industry, to work with us, Cherwell District Council, and our local communities to create a masterplan of global significance.” — Anna Strongman, CEO, Oxford University Development

Setting the scene

This is indeed a rare opportunity, given the client’s blue-chip standing and its aspirations to create an internationally recognised, exemplar project that pushes boundaries in design innovation, environmental sustainability and social wellbeing.

The winner of this competition will set the ambition and design intent for a successful, multi-phased regeneration programme, which is expected to come to fruition over the coming 20 years and with an overall budget in excess of £1billion. The winning team will bring demonstrable expertise to the table, however it will also be visionary, prepared to work collaboratively with the client to create something that is truly special and worthy of this unique opportunity.

The purpose of this competition is to select the masterplanner and design team for Begbroke. It is not a competition to design a masterplan.

Competition’s stages

STAGE 1
An open call, asking for expressions of interest from inspiring teams that believe they have the ability to rise to this creative challenge.

STAGE 2
Five teams will be shortlisted to take part in Stage 2, which will include a mid-tender showcase/Q&A session, and will culminate in an interview with the Jury Panel.