
OPPIDAÂ SCIENTIFIC
City Design, Planning and Policy
CITIES
The City, Science and Method
Oppida Scientific, was established with the aim of achieving real results for our clients by demystifying urban planning, its jargon and esoteric concepts with the application of "science" and method. We ask "why" first; before how, what or when to ensure that our advice is informed by deep thinking and sound research.
​
Oppida Scientific - science based thinking for shaping cities and regions
​
​
ABOUT
Peter Mann (Masters of Urban Development & Design, BA (Hons) Geography) , has over 25 years urban planning , city design, development policy and management experience in New South Wales State and local government and the private sector which is complimented by interstate and international project work.
Peter and Oppida Scientific offer a different approach, integrating the key aspects of planning, urban design, economics, policy and systems analysis to achieve real results through innovation. Peter, has previously been manager of strategic planning at 2 local governments, worked for the NSW Department of Industry, Planning & Environment and undertaken private sector projects locally and oversees.
​
We do things differently at Oppida Scientific by challenging assumptions, current thinking and past convention with the application of science, method and experience to achieve positive results for a better future.
​
SECTORS
.
​

LOCAL GOVERNMENT
A Comprehensive Approach
Our services help local governments develop comprehensive planning strategies and assist with the implementation of State government planning policies at the local level. This includes the preparation of strategies, plans and planning instruments compliant with the principles of State government policy, but which are based on actual development capacity, local requirements & infrastructure constraints.
​
Oppida scientific offers local government a whole of systems approach ranging from planning policy to urban design and development strategies, to planning and impact assessment.
​

STATE & FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
Policy for the Future
Sound government policy is essential for the future success of our cities . Planning systems have to be designed with a purpose , but all too often fail in their implementation at the local level. With significant State and local government experience Oppida Scientific assists in the design of policy and its implementation through on the ground planning mechanisms.
Specialising in the areas of planning systems, citywide design, housing, affordability, employment generating development and urban geography we assist government in designing their policies and policy planning frameworks for success by bridging the gap between policy objectives local authorities and State agencies.

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT
Success Through Knowledge
Dealing with the ambiguities and the complexity of planning systems and government can be challenging. At Oppida we have had experience working in State & local government, the private sector and in the spaces in between. We strive to assist our clients by using our knowledge of the planning system and its actors to minimise delay and reduce risk by providing issue management and advocacy services.
For Australian and international business we offer a range of urban design, planning, development & project management services to aid you in delivering your projects. We can add value in identifying and appraising development opportunities and establishing approval pathways.
SERVICES
Sydney Metropolitan, Regional NSW & Interstate
URBAN PLANNING
Regional, citywide & local planning
Strategic plans
Development strategy
Land use & master planning
Heritage planning & impact assessment
Community strategic plans
Planning method & heuristics
Public consultation & workshops
​
​
​
CITY DESIGN
Citywide urban design
Structure Planning
Town Centre & precinct design
Spatial, morphological & density analysis
Townscape & streetscape analysis
Place Making
​
POLICYÂ & RESEARCH
Policy advisory & formulation
Governance & planning systems
Economic & urban geography
Urban policy & development strategy
Housing & Employment lands
Open space & facilities provision
Post COVID Urbanism
​
IMPLEMENTATION
Zoning schemes
Development Control Plans
Regional & District Plan implementation
State policy implementation
Statutory requirements
Advocacy & issue management
​
​
MANAGEMENT & TRAINING
Management reviews
Systems analysis
Organisational planning & integration
Knowledge management
Information systemsÂ
Technical training & team building
PROJECT
Issue scoping & project design
Brief preparation
Project management
Team leadership
Planning studies
​
​
PLACE & PRACTICE
Oppida has developed a unique, proprietary system for managing change in cities called PLACE & PRACTICE. Combining city design, physical planning , systems thinking, knowledge management, organisational learning, behavioural dynamics and change management techniques it provides a method and mechanisms for evolving cities, planning systems & resolving implementation issues particularly suited to government organisations
​
Please contact us if you would like to know more about how PLACE & PRACTICE can assist your organisation to achieve better physical, policy, sustainability & financial results for evolving our cities and regions to meet future needs.
