Against that backdrop, it was encouraging to see the Structural Timber Association and a number of its member businesses hosted at the Palace of Westminster, bringing together government representatives, housebuilders, housing associations and industry leaders to discuss the role structural timber can play in accelerating UK housebuilding and supporting the country’s sustainability ambitions.
The event highlighted the benefits of structural timber in delivering homes more quickly, sustainably and efficiently, whilst also recognising the growing adoption of timber frame by major UK housebuilders. The discussion was led by House of Commons Public Accounts Committee member Matt Turmaine MP and Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick with a panel including Andrew Orris, Chief Executive of Structural Timber Association.
As specialist recruiters to the offsite construction and MMC sectors, ARV Solutions has worked alongside the Structural Timber Association and many of its members for years. Through our recruitment partnerships and support of STA conferences, events and awards, we’ve had the privilege of witnessing first hand the resilience, innovation and commitment that exists throughout the sector.
The recent meeting feels significant because it reflects a growing recognition that structural timber has an important role to play in addressing some of the UK’s biggest challenges, particularly housing delivery and decarbonisation. With seven of the UK’s top 15 housebuilders reportedly planning to manufacture in timber frame, momentum appears to be building.
Of course, the industry has heard positive messages before. The real question is whether today’s political environment can translate those conversations into meaningful action.
With new leadership in place, will the focus on increasing housing delivery and driving economic growth really start to happen?
Whether this becomes the catalyst the structural timber sector has been waiting for remains to be seen, but the fact these discussions are taking place at the heart of government is undoubtedly a positive step.
After a difficult period for many businesses, there are reasons for cautious optimism.
The challenge now is turning intent into action.
A question for the industry:
Could the government’s drive to accelerate housebuilding finally unlock the wider adoption of structural timber, or are there still barriers that industry and policymakers need to address together?
Structural timber promoted at Westminster
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