What's next for the Oxford-Cambridge Arc's knowledge economy?

Bidwells' latest Oxford to Cambridge Arc report forecasts 20m sq ft of commercial space will be needed in the  region over next two decades. 

With office and laboratory space demand still strong and radical planning reform promised imminently, Bidwells' latest webinar asked: what's next for the Arc's knowledge economy? 

The one-hour discussion was chaired by Ox-Cam Arc expert Rob Hopwood, planning partner at Bidwells but kicked off with a presentation of Bidwells' latest Arc research from research director, Sue Foxley.

Our panelists were:

• Bridget Rosewell CBE, Commissioner of the National Infrastructure Commission
• Roz Bird, MEPC Commercial Director

The key points of discussion were:

• What does the knowledge economy need most to meet soaring demand and further build the Arc economy’s resilience?
• Which new planning tools are best suited to delivering growth in this unique mix of places and region?
• What do investors want to see from government now?
• Do we have time to wait for major changes to the planning system to be made?