Why Scotland Cannot Afford to Sit on the Sidelines
As MIPIM 2026 approaches, the message from OOBE is clear: Scotland must be visible, vocal, and proactive. Scotland cannot afford to sit on the sidelines while other European regions capture the attention of global decision-makers.
Being part of the Scotland at MIPIM delegation is about ensuring our cities are positioned as primary destinations for sustainable investment. At OOBE, we see this transformation first-hand. From the Barclays Campus in Glasgow—recently shortlisted for a Pineapple Award for its transformative public realm—to the burgeoning Build-to-Rent (BTR) sector, we are proving that high-quality, landscape-led environments are the key to attracting and retaining global talent.
A New Standard for Urban Living
Investment follows quality of life. We are seeing this demand manifest in landmark projects like The McEwan at Fountainbridge in Edinburgh with MODA, and Holland Park in Glasgow. These aren't just residential blocks; they are new communities where the "spaces between" define the resident experience. Our work on Napiershall Street, Sauchiehall Street, and St Vincent Street further underscores this: by prioritising active travel and environmental enhancements, we are turning traditional thoroughfares into vibrant, investment-ready urban anchors.
Regeneration as a Catalyst for Growth
Scotland’s strength lies in its ability to reinvent itself. The massive scale of the Sighthill Masterplan with Urban Union and our ongoing work within Clyde Gateway demonstrate how landscape-led regeneration can turn brownfield sites into Scotland’s first "Green Regeneration and Innovation Districts."
Whether it is the social housing-led renewal at East Whitlawburn with Stallan-Brand or the major mixed-use riverside vision at Yorkhill Quay, we are using design to de-risk complex sites and create the stability that international investors crave.
Beyond the Central Belt: A Diversified Economy
OOBE is proud to be at the heart of this regional expansion. Our masterplanning work at Craigforth in Stirling is opening up ancient woodlands to create a stunning mixed-use campus, while the Blindwells Masterplan in East Lothian is carving a new town out of former industrial land, supported by robust green and blue infrastructure.
Shaping the Conversation
We are shaping the conversation about what the future of our Scottish cities should look like. Scotland offers a unique blend of heritage, innovation, and a progressive planning landscape that prioritises biodiversity and resilience.
By being visible to global decision-makers, we ensure that Scotland remains at the top of the agenda for the next decade of sustainable development. The success of the V&A in Dundee has proven how world-class design can act as a £300m economic engine for an entire region. We are seeing a similar ripple effect in the leisure and lifestyle sectors—with the proposed new Center Parcs in the Borders.
Connect with us at MIPIM - mipim@oobe.co.uk.