Runway Park

Runway Park represents a transformative vision for the future of innovation in South Yorkshire — a masterplan that repositions the University of Sheffield’s existing research assets within a connected, human-centred campus.

Designed to foster collaboration between academia, industry and the wider community, the project creates a strategic framework for long-term growth within the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District.

Runway Park transforms a 100‑acre site into a globally competitive innovation district for advanced manufacturing, research, and technology. 

• A single unified masterplan linking co‑located research, industry, start‑ups, and investors.
• Over 10 miles of footpaths and 45 acres of integrated green space enhancing campus permeability.
• Seamless public realm promoting serendipitous interaction and informal collaboration.

This strategic framework enables the region’s role as a global hub for advanced manufacturing and positions Sheffield as a leader in innovation-driven growth.

Runway Park leverages existing innovation infrastructure and accelerates growth into a richly programmed environment:

• Integrates existing and future assets to create a cohesive identity and a networked ecosystem.
• Acts as a catalyst for regional innovation, linking clusters across Doncaster, Rotherham, Barnsley, and Sheffield Forgemasters – with potential to shape Yorkshire’s industrial narrative.
• Embeds a curated event calendar, activation spaces and public art to host exhibitions, exchanges and open innovation events – making innovation visible and accessible to industry, academia and community.

In partnership with the University, the masterplan was co‑developed through multidisciplinary workshops, site walks, and stakeholder consultation – ensuring real-world viability and collective ownership.

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of Runway Park:

• Biodiversity-led landscaping connects 87 hectares of adjacent parkland and woodland into the campus seamlessly.
• Above-ground power infrastructure with 27 MVA already secured, supporting low‑carbon energy transitions.
• Building performance and low-carbon infrastructure are integral – featuring on-site renewables and scalable schemes designed to adapt to evolving technology and growth.

Wellbeing and ecology are central. The masterplan includes green corridors, outdoor pavilions, and amenity‑rich public spaces that encourage active travel, healthy lifestyles, and social interaction.

Runway Park exemplifies how thoughtful masterplanning – anchored in collaboration, connectivity and environmental stewardship – can elevate a region’s innovation ecosystem. It unifies key R&D assets, supports inclusive innovation pathways, and sets a sustainability standard for future-ready campuses.

With bonded ambition between Bond Bryan:Fairhursts and the University of Sheffield, this project lays a platform not just for buildings, but for legacy, impact and regional transformation.