Job Description

Salary

400 + VAT: paid by invoice.

Contractual hours

0

Basis

Casual Hours

Region

Oxford

Package

Reasonable travel expenses will also be paid up to a maximum of 100.

Job category/type

Fixed term

Date posted

17/12/2025

Job reference

002751



Previous applicants are welcome to apply but current members do not need to reapply. We would be particularly interested in applications from within Landscape or Conservation Architecture, Sustainability Experts and Transport Planners.


Established in 2014, the Oxford Design Review Panel (ODRP) is a dynamic and influential group of experts dedicated to ensuring the high-quality design of buildings, streets, and spaces across Oxford through a design review process. Providing independent, impartial advice on major developments the Panel play an important role in helping to safeguard the unique character and future legacy of our beautiful, historic city.


Oxford is a world class city with an international reputation. A major challenge is accommodating growth, increasing density of development and addressing climate change but without compromising design quality or harming heritage assets. As a world class city, Oxford attracts the best architects to work on schemes that have been transformational for the city in recent years, and the Oxford Design Review Panel is critical for guiding these schemes.

About the Role:

Oxford City Council is seeking passionate, skilled professionals to join the ODRP. As a panel member, you'll play a key role in shaping the urban landscape, guiding projects through a design review process that is fully integrated into Oxford's planning system. Your insights will directly contribute to ensuring that new developments enhance the city's architectural and public realm, promote sustainability, and respect local heritage.

We're Looking for Experts in the Following Areas:

Urban Design Architecture Landscape Architecture Public Realm Historic Environment Energy and Sustainability Local Authority Planning Transport and Streets Regeneration and Viability Engineering Inclusive Design Co-Design and Community Engagement

Key Responsibilities:

Participate in design review meetings for major planning applications, providing constructive feedback to improve schemes. Work alongside a diverse team of experts, contributing to discussions that influence significant development projects. Ensure that designs reflect the context, constraints, and ambitions of Oxford, supporting sustainable growth and high-quality placemaking. Attend panel meetings and site visits, where you'll review projects at the pre-application stage. Contribute to the drafting and finalisation of design review reports, outlining the panel's expert advice.

What to Expect:

As a panelist, you'll be expected to participate in a design review or event every three to four months, with some meetings scheduled fortnightly for extended periods. Reviews take half a day for one scheme and a full day for two, with larger or more complex projects taking longer. This includes site visits, briefings, and discussions to ensure thorough and informed feedback.

Why Join?

This is a fantastic opportunity to influence the future of Oxford while working with other leading practitioners. You'll help create a lasting legacy of thoughtful, innovative, and high-quality design in one of the UK's most iconic cities.

How to Apply:

If you're an experienced professional in one of the fields mentioned above and are passionate about creating sustainable, well-designed places, we want to hear from you! Apply today and become part of Oxford's ongoing story of growth and innovation.


Help shape the future of Oxford - join the ODRP today!