CBRE, the global real estate advisory firm, is pleased to announce Tej Singh as the new head of its Southampton office. He takes on the role from 1st October 2024. Tej succeeds James Brounger, who will move to a new role focusing on client management and major pursuits across the
Workspace Design Show announces the theme of its 2025 edition: ‘Activate the Senses’; which will explore how multi-sensory, immersive environments aid wellbeing, productivity and engagement in the workplace. Workspace Design Show returns to the Business Design Centre from 26 – 27 February 2025 and it is a welcomed addition to
The main construction work on the first phase of Our Cultural Heart – Kirklees Council’s major regeneration scheme in Huddersfield town centre – is officially underway. Following the appointment of BAM as the principal contractor for this phase of work, core construction work began in earnest this week. This includes
Following what continues to be a constant evolution to the operational landscape for the commercial property sector, Propertymark Commercial Members continue to witness a reimagination and development of the sector in response to the rise of online retailers over the last ten years and the aftereffects of the Coronavirus pandemic.
In a significant step forward for the UK’s aspirations to be a ‘science superpower’, specialist investor, developer and operator for the science and innovation sector Mission Street and BGO, a leading global real estate investment manager, received planning consent to deliver a world-class 23-acre urban science district in central Cambridge.
Watkin Jones, the UK’s leading developer and manager of residential for rent, is pleased to announce that the Group recently practically completed on a 335-bed purpose-built student accommodation (‘PBSA’) scheme called The Brook, situated in Lower Bristol Road in Bath. This milestone marks the completion of the final development in
Casa by Moda has launched a preliminary wave of homes at its first two developments in Yorkshire. The two single-family homes (SFH) neighbourhoods in Leeds and Doncaster mark a continuation of the Casa by Moda growth story, and are expected to redefine the local rental market. Once complete, the neighbourhoods
Project-starts, planning approvals and contract wins all down as construction industry braces for impact Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases the September 2024 edition of its Construction Review. The Review focuses on the three months to the end of August 2024, covering all major
With a strong focus on sustainability at this year’s UK Construction Week Birmingham show (NEC, October 1st to 3rd), the organisers has announced a brand new Net Zero Trail which will highlight the latest eco innovations and ideas driving the construction industry towards a net zero future, which visitors can
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) and the Supply Chain Sustainability School have today published a groundbreaking report aimed at addressing the housing crisis through Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). The report lays out key policy recommendations designed to accelerate the adoption of MMC and deliver high-quality, affordable homes at scale.
CBRE, the global real estate advisory firm, is pleased to announce Tej Singh as the new head of its Southampton office. He takes on the role from 1st October 2024. Tej succeeds James Brounger, who will move to a new role focusing on client management and major pursuits across the South Coast, as well as continuing to support with the overall growth of the Midlands and South business. Tej joined CBRE Southampton in 2014, where he has worked with investors, developers, lenders, local authorities and occupiers across the UK and the south coast. He was promoted to Director in 2019. Tej said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Head of the Southampton office. The real estate market on the south coast has fantastic potential and I look forward to continuing to work with our talented colleagues across all services to deliver exceptional client outcomes.” James Brounger has led CBRE Southampton for 14 years and will remain based in Southampton, continuing to work with clients alongside his new role. He said: “It has been a privilege to lead the Southampton office and I am proud of all we have achieved. Tej has an impressive track record in the local market and with our clients, and I have no doubt he will be an outstanding successor.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Workspace Design Show announces the theme of its 2025 edition: ‘Activate the Senses’; which will explore how multi-sensory, immersive environments aid wellbeing, productivity and engagement in the workplace. Workspace Design Show returns to the Business Design Centre from 26 – 27 February 2025 and it is a welcomed addition to London’s design calendar, attended by the top architects, designers, occupiers, developers, consultants, coworking and fit-out companies. It is the event to explore workspace innovation, unveil the latest products, ignite your creative spark through thought-provoking talks and immersive programs. “Activate the Senses” invites attendees to embark on a journey of immersive experiences that stimulate all five senses. Guests will step into a space which showcases how each ‘sense’ has a profound impact on the mind, contributing to wellbeing, engagement and productivity. Comfort factors such as light, sound and temperature play a hugely important role in the design of the working environment. The same factors can also be divisive, if not careful considered throughout the design process, with every individual having different levels of tolerance, sensitivity and needs. From acoustics to lighting to aromas and textures, each element plays a central role in creating a multi-sensory workspace to enhance employee focus and wellbeing. As we embrace technological advancements and invest in new design approaches, the understanding of how external influences affect everyone becomes increasingly more apparent. ‘Activate the Senses’ explores what this means for the future of workplaces and the people working within. “With the industry being at such a pivotal point of change we are looking to gain a deeper understanding of how, through research and knowledge, technological innovations can benefit the workplace environment. We are all becoming increasingly more in tune with our personal needs and how they differ from one person to the next. Through talks, exhibitors and connections Workspace Design Show will bring this to life.” – Esha Bark-Jones, Co-Founder of Workspace Design Show. Workspace Design Show, 26 – 27 February 2025, Business Design Centre, 52 Upper St, London N1 0QH workspaceshow.co.uk Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The main construction work on the first phase of Our Cultural Heart – Kirklees Council’s major regeneration scheme in Huddersfield town centre – is officially underway. Following the appointment of BAM as the principal contractor for this phase of work, core construction work began in earnest this week. This includes the demolition of some sections of the former Queensgate Market building, as its transformation into a vibrant new food hall and modern library ramps up. The core Listed sections of the building will be fully refurbished, enhancing the end result and celebrating the venue’s unique heritage and character. BAM has already completed significant pre-construction site preparation, with work including the ‘soft stripping’ of all non-structural and internal fixtures and fittings, as well as the removal of the former market stalls and asbestos. To mark this significant project milestone, senior figures from Kirklees Council – including the Leader of the Council, Councillor Carole Pattison – joined project colleagues from Turner & Townsend and BAM. This first phase of the masterplan concentrates on the major refurbishment of the Queensgate Market building, converting it into a new food hall and incorporating a new library within the existing east wing of the same building. Both the food hall and new library will directly feed out to a new public square, with the connecting space perfectly suited to outdoor cultural events and gatherings. Councillor Carole Pattison, Leader of Kirklees Council, said: “It’s a proud moment to see the main construction work on Our Cultural Heart get going and comes after extensive planning and consultation efforts over the last few years. “We have high ambitions for this new era of our town centre. Developments like Our Cultural Heart will bring more visitors to the town and help to drive growth and investment in Huddersfield and the wider Kirklees borough. “Now that the internal strip out is completed and the real work is underway, the transformation of the site will quickly become visible to all in our town and a source of pride and excitement for what’s to come.” Paul Cleminson, Pre-Construction Director at BAM, said: “This is an exciting scheme for Huddersfield and we’re delighted to be starting work on site. “An important driver for BAM is ensuring our projects positively impact the local community and we want to make sure that this project also leaves a lasting legacy for the people and businesses of Kirklees. “We’re driving investment into the local economy by employing Kirklees-based subcontractors, procuring materials locally, and creating employment and apprenticeship opportunities on the project. “We’ll also be reaching out to local schools and colleges, to provide learning opportunities on the project.” Kirklees Council submitted updated plans for the second phase of the Our Cultural Heart development earlier this month, concentrating on a flagship new museum and art gallery in the former library building on Princess Alexandra Walk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Following what continues to be a constant evolution to the operational landscape for the commercial property sector, Propertymark Commercial Members continue to witness a reimagination and development of the sector in response to the rise of online retailers over the last ten years and the aftereffects of the Coronavirus pandemic. Many town centres are starting to embark on a phase of revitalisation that brings a new focus for many communities, transforming space that was traditionally wholly retail focused into areas that provide a sensible balance of business space, leisure, entertainment, education, and health-related facilities that better suit future demand. There has been a positive uplift in rental sentiment for smaller businesses such as the takeaways sector. However, sentiment in the leisure sector has shifted to negative and agents remain concerned about rents for large-scale office space, pubs and restaurants. There are future challenges to consider within the sector, as uncertainty persists about future government legislation, other factors include high building costs and rates liabilities being highlighted as key concerns within the medium to long term. Michael Sears, Commercial Advisory Panel Member, comments: “The commercial property sector remains challenging, as we continue to transition away from traditional retail-based models and witness the ongoing impact of online shopping across the retail landscape. In addition, we have seen a defined shift away from demand on large-scale office space, with many businesses striking a new balance offering long-term and permanent homeworking alternatives. “As aspects evolve, they provide deep insight into how the commercial property sector must focus for the future. The after-effects of the pandemic continue to reformat many conventional ways of thinking about how the industry has invested over the years. “However, we do sit at the start of an exciting phase where many town and city centres are looking at large-scale redevelopment ensuring they are fit for purpose for future generations to come. Within this process there are exciting opportunities to ensure a healthy mix of property types which ensures communities have a defined offering that coexists and complements the growth of online retailing and the evolution of homeworking.” The latest Commerial Property Report can be found at: https://www.propertymark.co.uk/resource/commercial-outlook-q2-2024.html Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
In a significant step forward for the UK’s aspirations to be a ‘science superpower’, specialist investor, developer and operator for the science and innovation sector Mission Street and BGO, a leading global real estate investment manager, received planning consent to deliver a world-class 23-acre urban science district in central Cambridge. Approved by Cambridge City Council’s planning committee subject to Section 106 and Conditions, the district will be just 10 minutes’ cycle from the central railway station and will be developed on a site that has been unused for decades. The district, which is one of the largest new urban science district developments in the UK, will facilitate a variety of research and development uses, catering to companies throughout their growth journey, from start-up to large multinational, within a single location. Innovative companies that have previously been forced to relocate or fragment their businesses will have the space to scale within the ecosystem, with the advantage of being part of a major science and technology cluster in a central location. Totaling 1,000,000 sq ft of GIA across 7 buildings, the scheme’s design has been led by master planners Hawkins Brown in collaboration with other leading design practices. Anchored by a central square, the fully pedestrianised masterplan – open to the public – will create a destination for all ages, including units suitable for local businesses, fitness infrastructure, a threefold increase of play space for children, a diverse food and beverage offering and community events space. Provision has also been made for an active programme of events such as Public Art including an Artist in Residence, and a STEM-based educational outreach partnership with the Cambridge Science Centre that is already being implementing in local schools. “Since our first consultation with local stakeholders and the Cherry Hinton community, we’ve said that this is about breaking down the barriers prevalent with traditional science parks, creating an open and inviting innovation district, and putting the science on show. This project embodies the principle that it is entirely possible to blend R&D space for world-leading innovators with community amenities that everyone can enjoy,” said Artem Korolev, CEO, Mission Street. “We look forward to engaging further with planning officers, the community and other statutory consultees, as we deliver a globally significant science destination that current and future generations will be proud of.” According to market data tracked by Mission Street, there is demand for over six hundred thousand square feet of lab space in Cambridge, with a highly constrained active pipeline that cannot adequately meet growing demand levels. Demand is particularly high for inner-city R&D space – a relatively new concept to the UK that is well-established in the US. During construction, the project is expected to create over 800 jobs and £7 million of local expenditure, as well as apprenticeship and training programmes. Once complete, it will create nearly 4,000 high-skill jobs, with a mandated Cambridge Living Wage. Mission Street and BGO’s partnership has a development pipeline of over 1.5 million square feet of lab and office space in key strategic locations including Cambridge, Oxford, and Bristol. Recent projects include Fabrica and Inventa, which total 180,000 square feet of flexible R&D space in central Oxford, and The Press, Foxton, providing c. 100,000 square feet of multi-tenanted laboratory and office floorplate in the Cambridge Southern Biomedical Cluster. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Watkin Jones, the UK’s leading developer and manager of residential for rent, is pleased to announce that the Group recently practically completed on a 335-bed purpose-built student accommodation (‘PBSA’) scheme called The Brook, situated in Lower Bristol Road in Bath. This milestone marks the completion of the final development in a portfolio of three PBSA schemes located in Swansea, Nottingham, and Bath. These schemes were sold by Watkin Jones to EQT Exeter in 2022 as part of a larger transaction, which represented EQT Exeter’s first venture into the UK PBSA market. Part of a major mixed-use project, The Brook is a two-building development that has 215 cluster flats and 120 studios which are now ready for incoming students for the 2024/25 academic year. The scheme will be managed by Fresh, the Group’s specialist accommodation management business. The scheme offers 335 sq m of indoor and outdoor amenity space, featuring a private courtyard and gardens. Located within a 15-minute walk from the historic city centre, The Brook provides excellent sustainable transport options, including the nearby National Route Four cycling route, local buses, and Bath Spa train station. Built on a former car park, the development will help address Bath’s growing demand for student accommodation. The University of Bath, a top 10 UK university, remains a prime destination for higher education students and accommodation in the city is stretched across both PBSA and build-to-rent (‘BTR’). The Brook is designed with sustainability in mind, delivering a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating. Offering a WiredScore Platinum rating, the development ensures a top-tier living experience delivered through technology-enabled amenities. Furthermore, 170 secure cycle parking spaces are available for student use. Richard Harris, Managing Director – Group Delivery at Watkin Jones, said: “This is another milestone for Watkin Jones, and we are proud to hand over the keys to The Brook in time for the 2024/25 academic year. “We have worked closely with EQT Exeter on this project to strengthen the availability of much-needed student accommodation in Bath, a city renowned for its excellent higher education, attracting both domestic and international students. Fresh will manage The Brook, ensuring it meets the very highest standards for student living and wellbeing. “Watkin Jones remains committed to investing in the South West, to consistently delivering high-quality, sustainable student accommodation that provides a comfortable home for students.” Sam Scott, Managing Director at Fresh, added: ‘We are thrilled to manage The Brook, a development that perfectly aligns with our commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable communities. At Fresh, we understand the importance of providing students with not just a place to live, but a space where they can thrive. With its modern amenities and focus on wellbeing, The Brook is set to become a standout residence in Bath, offering an exceptional student experience from day one.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Casa by Moda has launched a preliminary wave of homes at its first two developments in Yorkshire. The two single-family homes (SFH) neighbourhoods in Leeds and Doncaster mark a continuation of the Casa by Moda growth story, and are expected to redefine the local rental market. Once complete, the neighbourhoods will provide 323 one, two, three and four-bedroom houses and apartments, with resident move-ins commencing this month for the first 40 units. The Leeds neighbourhood, known as Casa, Abbey Court, is located in Kirkstall, one of the city’s most accessible fringe locations. Casa at Westmoor Grange is located within the desirable suburban village of Armthorpe in Doncaster. Both locations were selected based on proximity to local amenity, namely transport network and good schools, which makes the neighbourhoods ideal for couples, families, sharers and key workers. Ahead of first residents moving in across both neighbourhoods this month, Casa launched their show homes in both Leeds and Doncaster, showcasing the high-quality product offered by Casa by Moda, which is the SFH arm of market-leading rental living business Moda Group. The ambition for the new neighbourhoods is to follow on from the success of Casa, Vista Park in Glasgow, which fully let across its first three phases, with fourth phase move-ins commencing this month. SFH is a significant driver for institutional flow of capital to the private rented sector, which has historically been controlled by individual private landlords. Recent research by Knight Frank reported that institutional investors spent a record £1.9 billion acquiring or funding SFH in the UK in 2023. This has marked a fivefold increase in investment levels, attributed to elevated mortgage rates and a shifting tax and regulatory landscape. SFH offers a viable alternative to home ownership through secure, long-term leases – the expectation is that high-quality SFH will experience robust and sticky tenant demand aligning with current data illustrating that one-third of UK renters have resided at their current address for more than five years. All Casa by Moda neighbourhoods offer deposit-alternative, pet-friendly living which places service, technology, wellbeing, and sustainability at the heart of its rental communities. Rental packages include superfast broadband, renewable energy sources and smart technology such as home security systems, smart doorbells and environmental sensors from Casa by Moda’s technology partner Utopi. The smart home sensors enable renters to monitor everything from room temperature to air quality, assisting in cultivating a higher quality of life for tenants and creating energy efficiency through real-time data on energy usage. Residents have access to the bespoke MyCasa app, which allows residents to communicate 24/7 with resident maintenance services. The app also supports the wider resident community, allowing residents to connect with their neighbours, form chats and clubs and engage with seasonal events run by Casa. Matt Townson, Director of Development and Projects at Casa by Moda, said: “Having opened our first neighbourhood in Glasgow last year, it’s very exciting to be opening the next two in Casa by Moda’s home county of Yorkshire. The success of Casa, Vista Park in Glasgow has shown there is a demand for high quality rental homes which offer more than just bricks and mortar. “As a business, we’re focused on setting the bar for next generation rental living in the UK, enabling our residents to live securely, happily and healthily, whilst offering a unique rental living experience.” Sarah Nelson, Director of Operations at Casa by Moda adds: “It’s about creating a sense of community and offering a level of service not typically seen in the private rental market. From initial enquiry to the day residents move in and beyond – we’re there each step of the way. “At Casa, we provide a market-leading digital service and connect with our communities 24/7 via the MyCasa app, reassuring residents that they have a direct point of contact to the Casa team at all times for anything they need, and likewise helping us connect with them.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Project-starts, planning approvals and contract wins all down as construction industry braces for impact Glenigan, one of the construction industry’s leading insight and intelligence experts, releases the September 2024 edition of its Construction Review. The Review focuses on the three months to the end of August 2024, covering all major (>£100m) and underlying (<£100m) projects, with all underlying figures seasonally adjusted. It’s a report which provides a detailed and comprehensive analysis of year-on-year construction data, giving built environment professionals a unique insight into sector performance over the last 12 months. Averaging £9,751 million per month, work commencing on-site dipped 7% against the preceding three months to stand flat compared to a year ago. This decline was attributed to a significant drop in major project-starts which fell back 23% against the preceding three months, despite increasing 13% compared to 2023. Conversely, underlying project-starts were down on the previous year despite inching up (+7%) on the preceding three months. Main contract awards also faltered on the preceding three months’ performance, declining 21% in the three months to August to stand 7% lower than the same time last year. Detailed planning approvals plummeted 37% against the previous year, as well as falling back 11% against the preceding quarter. Commenting on the Review, Glenigan’s Senior Economist, Yuliana Ivanykovych, says, “The UK construction industry is showing signs of recovery, with a rise in private housing and infrastructure starts underpinning a 7% starts increase compared to the preceding three months. Confidence is returning to the private residential market, which will come as good news for investors and developers alike. However, we must be mindful of the sluggish growth of the national economy, with recent flatlining GDP figures indicating that market caution still reigns supreme.” She continues, “The recent strong spell for infrastructure may not last, especially as we’ve registered a slowdown in major projects, despite their value growing year-on-year. This may be caused by short-term sector trepidation as contractors await clarity from the Government’s Autumn Budget.” The sector-specific and regional index, which measures underlying project performance, saw modest growth during the three months to the end of August 2024. Taking a closer look at the highlights… Residential construction maintains growth Residential construction remained a bright spot, with underlying project-starts increasing 22% on the preceding three months, despite an 8% dip year-on-year. Private housing developments saw a robust 30% rise as investor confidence improved, although these figures still lag 4% behind last year’s numbers. Meanwhile, social housing starts remained sluggish, down 4% against the preceding three months to stand 21% below last year. Strong civils performance Civils work starting on-site experienced a particularly healthy period, posting impressive performance scores, rising 18% against the preceding three months and standing 9% up on the previous year. This growth was largely attributed to impressive performance in the infrastructure vertical, with starts up by 31% against the preceding three months and by 36% compared with a year ago. A key contributor to this growth was the commencement of the new HS2 station at Old Oak Common in London. These positive scores were tempered by sluggish utility starts, which decreased by 3% against the preceding three months to finish 23% down against the previous year. Regional Outlook The East Midlands experienced a welcome 65% rise in starts against the preceding three months, standing 16% up against the previous year. The South West and Northern Ireland also posted strong growth, with starts rising 20% and 32%, respectively, against the preceding three months, standing 6% and 36% up against the previous year. Starts in Northern Ireland were boosted by the commencement of a £150m industrial project in Antrim, Enkalon Business Park. Scotland experienced a 20% increase against the preceding three months but remained 13% down on the previous year. Likewise, London saw a 10% increase against the Index period but was 8% down against 2023 levels. Elsewhere, regional performance was poor. The value of starts in Yorkshire and the Humber and Wales declined by 19% and 6% during the three months to August and were 12% and 46% down respectively on a year earlier. The East of England experienced a mixed period, increasing 18% against the preceding three months to stand 13% down on the previous year. The North East and the North West performed poorly, declining by 35% and 15% respectively against the previous three months, and standing 29% and 12% down against the previous year. To find out more about Glenigan and its construction intelligence services click here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
With a strong focus on sustainability at this year’s UK Construction Week Birmingham show (NEC, October 1st to 3rd), the organisers has announced a brand new Net Zero Trail which will highlight the latest eco innovations and ideas driving the construction industry towards a net zero future, which visitors can seek out across the UKCW show floor. The new trail will guide visitors through the show to exhibitors including JCB, Niftylift, Celsa Steel UK, Fischer Future Heat and Makita, who are championing cutting-edge technologies, materials and solutions that are paving the way for the construction industry’s transition to net zero emissions. Also making its first appearance at the show is the Net Zero Hub. Sponsored by Reconomy, the new show area will be partnering with National Retrofit Hub, a non-profit collaborative organisation working with the industry to enable the delivery of housing retrofit across the UK, which has curated the entire seminar programme on Day Two (Wednesday October 2nd). Talks at the Net Zero Hub include: Jamie Roberts, Divisional Director for Construction, Housing and Infrastructure at Reconomy Commented – “We’re delighted to be sponsoring the Net Zero Hub this year and bring a fantastic range of content to the show. It’s been a challenging year for the construction and housebuilding sector, but it’s encouraging to have so many businesses approaching us and looking for ways to operate more sustainably. That’s why the Net Zero Hub is so crucial to this year’s show.” “Visitors can expect to gain valuable insights from the likes of Balfour Beatty on how they’re driving a more circular construction sector, and also hear from Reconomy’s Head of External Affairs on upcoming legislation that will impact all of us.” After being officially opened by architect and Channel 4 presenter, George Clarke, the show will open up to opportunities to meet with innovative exhibitors, attend expert-led seminars, experience live demonstrations and get involved in interactive learnings across the show’s other main hubs, which include: Sam Patel, Divisional Director – Construction, commented: “Our new Net Zero Trail will highlight the steps that the UK construction industry is taking to contribute towards a greener future – essential to not only conform to government legislation and targets, but also to be competitive with their international counterparts.” UKCW has also announced a newly launched VIP ticket for the Birmingham show, which gives visitors not only VIP parking close to the show halls, but entry into the VIP Lounge and complimentary refreshments – ideal for one-to-one networking and meetings away from the busy show floor. The one-day passes are available for a limited time price of £99. With this year’s theme of ‘Growth’, UKCW Birmingham will examine a wide range of topics over three days of insight, innovation and inspiration across its number of hubs and areas. To find out more about the Net Zero Trail, visit https://www.ukconstructionweek.com/ukcw-net-zero-trail To find out more and register for UKCW Birmingham for free, visit https://ukcw-birmingham-2024.reg.buzz/cabpr Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) and the Supply Chain Sustainability School have today published a groundbreaking report aimed at addressing the housing crisis through Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). The report lays out key policy recommendations designed to accelerate the adoption of MMC and deliver high-quality, affordable homes at scale. The report’s development was led by the CLC Housing Working Group’s Smart Construction Sub-Group, which includes representatives from: The report proposes a series of long-term policy goals for the Labour Government to consider, including the creation of a dedicated MMC Taskforce. This taskforce, once convened, would be responsible for developing a comprehensive MMC strategy within six months. The strategy would focus on: Addressing the Housing and Skills Crisis The report identifies MMC as a key solution to the UK’s housing shortage, proposing that the adoption of MMC could counter the current 225,000-person skills gap in construction. With the ability to rapidly scale up housing delivery to meet demand for 300,000 – 500,000 homes annually, MMC offers a pathway to reversing decades of stagnation in the sector, which has seen construction productivity lag behind most other UK industries. Global Lessons and High-Level Targets Drawing on international case studies from countries including Australia, China and Japan, the report emphasises the need for high-level, published MMC targets that link both quantity and quality outcomes. It calls on the UK Government to implement clear, achievable goals that provide the construction industry with the certainty it needs to invest in MMC innovation and growth. The report also supports the National Housing Federation’s call for new towns and settlements to include a mix of housing tenures, with MMC prioritised for its ability to rapidly deliver high-quality, sustainable homes. A Clear Call to Action The CLC is urging the Government to adopt their recommendations, particularly the creation of the MMC Taskforce, as a matter of urgency. By doing so, the UK can tackle its housing shortage, address the construction skills crisis, and deliver environmentally sustainable housing at scale. Rory Bergin, Partner at Sustainable Futures said: “To meet the Government’s target of delivering 1.5 million new homes by 2029, we need to double housing output and remove barriers that limit productivity. MMC is a key part of this strategy, and the sector has invested heavily in it. Now is the time to build on that progress, modernise housing delivery, and release the benefits of increased productivity, sustainability, and quality.” Access the full report here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
