Over 170 guests gathered for our seminar at 20 Cavendish Square, hosted in partnership with the New West End Company, to explore the future of the nation’s high street.
The session opened with Scott Parsons, Chair of the Oxford Street Development Corporation (OSDC), who set out a clear ambition for the organisation as it prepares to assume planning powers:
“To deliver the most commercial, practical and timely planning service in the country.”
Chaired by WPA Board member and New West End Company Chair Paul Williams (Derwent London), the panel discussion examined the opportunities and challenges shaping Oxford Street’s transformation. In particular, discussion focused on how its strong fundamentals can be translated into long-term growth.
The panel highlighted Oxford Street’s global role with pedestrianisation creating a clear opportunity to enhance footfall, experience and use. However, realising this potential will require a more pragmatic planning approach to unlock investment, support office-led redevelopment and ensure heritage aligns with future growth.
- Matthew Blades, Director of Built Environment, Oxford Street Development Corporation
- Alexa Baden-Powell, Head of Investment, GPE
- Michael Carter, Senior Investment Manager, Norges Bank Investment Management
- Adam Hawksbee, Head of External Affairs, M&S
- Anne Ogundiya, Head of Planning Delivery & Place Shaping, Oxford Street Development Corporation
- Scott Parsons, Chair, Oxford Street Development Corporation
- Heidi Wade, Executive Director, CBRE
- Paul Williams, NWEC Chair, WPA Board & Chief Executive, Derwent London (panel chair)
