Warringtonfire to highlight fire safety at UK Construction Week with new displays and talks

by ConstructionFeatured NewsFire Engineering

Warringtonfire’s interactive fire safety displays at UK Construction Week

As reported by Warringtonfire, the company is set to participate in this year’s UK Construction Week, showcasing the importance of properly tested and certified construction products.

The event will take place from 1-3 October 2024 at the NEC in Birmingham.

Warringtonfire, part of the Element Materials Technology Group, will feature two new interactive displays that highlight the necessity of third-party testing and certification in the construction industry.

The “Good Door, Bad Door” exhibit and a burnt door display will demonstrate the role of fire resistance in construction materials.

Presentations on European standards and fire testing

In addition to the exhibits, Warringtonfire’s experts will be speaking at the Infrastructure Hub Theatre throughout the event.

On Tuesday, Peter Barker will explain the methods for deriving European classifications for construction products, specifically focusing on the differences between the EN 13501 and BS 476 standards.

On Wednesday, Nick Clifford will discuss Mass Timber Moisture Planning.

Finally, on Thursday, Chris Dean will present an introduction to fire reaction testing and classification.

Each presentation will offer delegates insights into the processes and standards involved in construction product testing and compliance.

Industry commitment to rigorous testing and certification

Warringtonfire’s participation in UK Construction Week highlights its ongoing commitment to promoting fire safety in the construction sector.

As part of its exhibition, the company will continue to emphasise the importance of thorough testing, proper installation, and product certification.

Peter Barker and Chris Dean, Technical Governance Managers at Warringtonfire, alongside Nick Clifford from BM TRADA, a sister company, will be sharing their expertise on industry standards and best practices.

Peter Barker stated: “It is absolutely vital that construction products that make their way onto the market and into our homes and buildings are tested and certified in the right way.”

New fire safety testing facility opening in 2025

Warringtonfire is also set to expand its testing capacity with the opening of a new £24m laboratory in Birchwood Park, Warrington, in January 2025.

This 101,000 sq ft facility will increase the company’s fire resistance testing capabilities by three times, with bookings now open.

Peter Barker added: “We’re very aware of the increasing demand for fire testing capacity, and that’s why we’ve decided to invest heavily to meet the market’s needs.

“The new laboratory will have five state-of-the-art furnaces ready for use in 2025, with two additional furnaces planned by the end of 2026.”

Warringtonfire to highlight fire safety at UK Construction Week with new displays and talks: Summary

Warringtonfire, a key player in fire safety testing and certification, will present two interactive exhibits at UK Construction Week 2024, emphasising the importance of third-party testing in construction.

The event will also feature presentations from Warringtonfire experts on European fire safety standards and testing processes.

The company is further investing in a new £24m fire testing laboratory, which will triple its current capacity when it opens in January 2025.

Fire Protection Association supports Grenfell Inquiry’s phase 2 recommendations for fire safety reform

by Associations and OrganisationsConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s phase 2 report released

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has commented on recently published Phase 2 report of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The report, authored by Sir Martin Moore-Bick, examines the systemic failures leading up to the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower on 14 June 2017, which resulted in the deaths of 72 residents.

The report highlights various shortcomings in the construction and fire safety sectors.

The inquiry did not attribute the disaster to a single cause, but rather identified widespread flaws in the system that allowed unsafe housing to be constructed and maintained.

Key recommendations focus on legislation and regulation

The report calls for changes in legislation and regulation.

Sir Martin recommends that the government consolidate responsibilities for fire safety and construction under a single regulator.

He suggests that statutory guidance, such as Approved Document B, be revised and updated.

Sir Martin also advises that the government should appoint a Chief Construction Adviser and emphasised the importance of including fresh perspectives from both academia and industry in the review process.

Professional accountability and fire safety competence

The inquiry uncovered misunderstandings and poor decisions made during the Grenfell Tower refurbishment.

Recommendations focus on improving the quality of fire safety work and enhancing accountability in higher-risk buildings.

It is suggested that fire safety strategies be made mandatory for high-risk buildings, and that the profession of fire engineer be legally recognised and regulated by an independent body.

Furthermore, accountability for fire safety must extend to senior managers involved in the design and construction process.

Addressing flaws in product testing and certification

One of the key findings of the inquiry was the role that cladding played in the spread of the fire.

Issues surrounding product testing and certification were highlighted, with some individuals accused of manipulating test data.

To address these flaws, the report recommends the development of new testing methods and greater transparency in product certification.

A construction regulator would oversee product conformity, and manufacturers would be required to disclose all relevant test data.

FPA calls for action on Grenfell recommendations

The FPA fully supports the recommendations outlined in the Grenfell Inquiry’s Phase 2 report.

According to FPA Chief Executive Dr Gavin Dunn: “It is imperative that everyone involved… reflect on what has happened… but most crucially, what needs to now be done differently.”

The FPA will monitor government responses and continue to offer guidance to ensure these changes are effectively implemented.

Over the coming weeks, expert analysis from the FPA will focus on the implications of the report for the fire safety sector.

Fire Protection Association supports Grenfell Inquiry’s phase 2 recommendations for fire safety reform: Summary

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 report highlights significant systemic failures in fire safety and construction.

Key recommendations focus on unifying fire safety regulation, updating statutory guidance, and improving accountability among professionals.

The report also addresses the shortcomings in product testing and certification.

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) supports the recommendations, emphasising the need for reflection and change to prevent a similar tragedy.

The report outlines the importance of recognising fire engineers as a regulated profession and improving the quality of fire risk assessments.

The FPA has pledged to support the government and stakeholders in implementing these changes.

Over the coming weeks, the FPA will provide expert analysis and guidance on the report’s findings and their impact on the fire safety sector.

Regulator of Social Housing fire safety report reveals remediation progress on buildings 11 metres and above

by Building ManagementConstructionPassiveSafety

Regulator of Social Housing fourth quarterly report details fire safety remediation

The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has released findings from its fourth quarterly survey on fire safety for buildings over 11 metres in the social housing sector.

As reported by The Regulator of Social Housing, all social landlords are required to provide quarterly updates to RSH and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on fire safety remediation efforts for the buildings they manage.

Out of 17,457 buildings reported, 99% had completed fire risk assessments.

Of these, 11% were found to have life-critical fire safety (LCFS) defects related to their external wall systems (EWS), while 88% showed no such defects.

11% of affected buildings are expected to have remedial work completed within the next six months, with 84% of repairs scheduled for completion in the next five years.

Landlords prioritise high-risk buildings

Some social landlords with multiple affected properties are prioritising fire safety remediation work on buildings considered higher risk.

These projects are often more complex and take longer to complete.

In the meantime, landlords are required to implement interim safety measures to protect tenants until all remediation work is fully finished.

The Regulator of Social Housing continues to monitor how landlords are progressing in their efforts to address LCFS defects.

Monitoring and regulation of fire safety

The RSH will continue its oversight of landlords’ fire safety practices, ensuring that systems and processes remain robust.

Social landlords must rely on accurate and up-to-date fire safety data to manage risks effectively and maintain tenant safety.

Will Perry, Director of Strategy at RSH, said: “This quarterly survey is an important tool in helping us monitor the progress being made by the sector on remediating fire safety defects.

“Fire safety is a fundamental responsibility, and we expect all landlords to take prompt and effective action so that tenants can feel safe in their homes.”

Landlords’ responsibilities towards tenants

Landlords are reminded of their duty to safeguard tenants’ safety while remediation work is being carried out.

Mitigating measures are required to reduce risk during the interim period, before repairs are fully completed.

Perry added: “Boards and councillors have a duty to ensure these plans are delivered.

“Meanwhile, our ongoing regulation, including our programme of inspections and responsive engagement, helps us check that landlords are meeting the outcomes of our standards – including those relating to fire safety.”

Fire safety report reveals progress on social housing buildings 11 metres and above: Summary

The Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) has published its fourth quarterly survey on fire safety in 11-metre-plus social housing buildings.

The report revealed that 99% of the 17,457 buildings had undergone fire risk assessments, with 11% showing life-critical fire safety defects related to their external wall systems.

Of the 1,932 affected buildings, 11% are expected to complete remediation work within six months, while 84% are due for completion within five years.

Some landlords are prioritising higher-risk properties for repairs.

The RSH will continue to monitor landlords’ progress and ensure that tenant safety measures remain in place until work is completed.

London fires prompt WMC’s call for enhanced building safety with fire survival cables

by ConstructionConstructionFire DetectionProducts

Wrexham Mineral Cables (WMC), a leading UK cable manufacturer, is calling for better building safety standards through the use of fire survival cables before more lives are put at risk.

WMC’s call to action comes after the recent fire in a residential tower block in Dagenham, east London, which required the evacuation of 80 people. The incident occurred just weeks after a blaze at the historic Somerset House, home to priceless artworks.

WMC says these high-profile fire events underscore the urgent need for building designers and specifiers to identify and install appropriate cables that can survive – not just resist – real-life fire scenarios.

Currently, specifiers are presented with a choice between polymeric cables and mineral insulated copper clad (MICC) cables. Due to the existing testing regime, both cable types are classed as fire-resistant, creating a misleading impression of equivalence. However, MICC cables have consistently demonstrated superior performance and proven to perform to higher safety standards in ‘real fire’ scenarios.

In 2023, WMC published a white paper outlining how cables – often an overlooked component of a building’s system –directly impact building safety. The paper advocates for the introduction of a higher classification of fire survival cable, which can continue to power critical circuits in the event of a fire.

Colin Hughes, Group Manager at WMC, commented: “Last year, the UK Government introduced stricter building regulations in England as part of new secondary legislation to implement the Building Safety Act. Sadly, recent events in London remind us that buildings of all types remain at a high risk of fire, and we must take every measure to ensure their safety.

“Fire survival cables are a vital component of building safety, yet they often remain an unrecognised hazard. Due to the lack of understanding about the important role they play in keeping buildings safe, all too often inferior cables are frequently installed, which may prove inadequate in the event of a fire. This uncertainty can only be addressed when all fire-resistant cables, regardless of size or construction, are subjected to true fire scenario tests. “At WMC, we are committed to educating the market about the advantages of specifying MICC fire survival cables.”

“Grief, anger and vindication” – FBU responds to the Grenfell Tower public inquiry

by ConstructionFire SuppressionNews Categories

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry has published its final report.  

Responding to the report, Matt Wrack, Fire Brigades Union general secretary, said:  

“Today is a sobering reminder of the tragic deaths of 72 people, and the deep scar that the Grenfell Tower fire has left on the community. The FBU shares the grief and anger of the bereaved, survivors and residents, and we call for justice for those who were killed by this entirely preventable fire.  

“The FBU has always argued that the fire was the result of decades of failure by central government to regulate the building industry – the prioritisation of private profit over human life.  

“This report completely vindicates that position, demonstrating beyond doubt that an agenda of deregulation cost lives. Construction companies gamed the system to maximise their profits. A system of semi-privatised building control put commercial interests ahead of regulatory duties.  

“Firefighters and fire control staff were put in an impossible position, forced to respond to a fire in a high rise building effectively wrapped in petrol.  Again and again, residents and firefighters warned of the dangers of combustible cladding but were ignored.  

“The FBU is still digesting the report’s recommendations, but the government must go further than what is set out in this report. The deregulation of recent decades must be comprehensively reversed. The systems for delivering building safety must be brought under public ownership and must be given the resources they need. 

“The lessons of the Grenfell Tower fire are relevant to fire and rescue services across the UK. To implement them, we need national standards set by a statutory advisory body on fire policy, giving a voice to firefighters and control staff and drawing on the best expert advice.  

“Seven years on from this horrific event, our thoughts and solidarity are with the victims of the fire.” 

“There needs to be an urgent and swift investigation”: Major fire in Dagenham brings attention to ongoing UK cladding crisis

by Breaking NewsConstructionSafety

Cladding crisis: Dagenham fire raises safety concerns

A fire engulfed an eight-story block of flats on Freshwater Road, Dagenham, leading to the evacuation of over 100 residents, as reported by multiple sources.

The fire, which broke out at 2:44 am on Monday, was brought under control by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) by 12:30 pm.

Two people were taken to the hospital, but all residents were accounted for.

LFB is investigating the cause of the fire, with a focus on flammable cladding.

The building had been undergoing remedial work to remove non-compliant cladding from its fifth and sixth floors.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) called for an immediate investigation into how such an incident could occur again.

The impact of unsafe cladding in the UK

The building involved in the Dagenham fire had been issued a fire enforcement notice in 2023 due to its unsafe cladding.

This fire is the latest incident highlighting the slow pace of the UK’s efforts to address fire safety issues in buildings with unsafe cladding.

FBU general secretary Matt Wrack expressed concern, stating: “Once again, a fire has erupted in a residential building wrapped in flammable cladding. There needs to be an urgent and swift investigation.”

He also emphasised that hundreds of thousands of people across the UK are still living in buildings with fire safety failings.

Resident accounts of the Dagenham fire

Residents caught in the Dagenham fire described harrowing scenes.

Sam Ogbeide, a resident of the fourth floor, recalled the moment he realised the fire’s intensity: “I opened my main door, smoke was coming in from the window—I live at the back. I saw it. Very terrible.”

Chris, another resident living behind the tower block, said: “I saw a bright light behind my window. We came outside and there were fire engines and ambulances. The blaze was so huge.”

Broader cladding crisis across the UK

This incident follows a similar fire at Charrington Tower in Poplar, which also had a history of cladding safety issues.

The fire in Poplar, which occurred just an hour after the Dagenham fire was controlled, has raised further alarm about fire safety in high-rise buildings.

A Ballymore Asset Management Ltd (BAML) spokesperson confirmed the building’s fire safety systems were effective but did not elaborate on the cause of the fire.

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s final report, due next week, is expected to reignite discussions on fire safety standards in the UK.

Despite government efforts, only 50% of the 4,600 identified buildings with unsafe cladding have undergone remedial work, leaving thousands of residents in buildings still at risk.

Industry calls for improved safety standards and training

Nicola John, Managing Director of Fire Door Maintenance at UAP Limited, emphasised the need for swift action within the construction industry to prevent future tragedies linked to non-compliant materials.

Nicola said: “Non-compliant building materials cause destruction and devastation, and the industry needs to take action to prevent further tragedy.”

She highlighted the importance of having a “golden thread” of information about building design and materials.

“All buildings need a digitised, easily accessible ‘golden thread’ of information about their design, construction, and management,” she added.

Nicola also underscored the significance of specialised training in the fire safety industry: “At FDM by UAP Ltd, we’re the only company in the country to train fire industry workers practically and holistically about the building lifecycle, so they understand completely how fire doors are designed, engineered, installed, and inspected.

“It’s training that the industry urgently needs, and it’s training that will save lives.”

Major fire in Dagenham brings attention to ongoing UK cladding crisis: Summary

A fire at an eight-story block of flats in Dagenham, London, has renewed concerns about fire safety in buildings with unsafe cladding.

The fire broke out early on Monday morning, resulting in the evacuation of over 100 residents.

Two people were hospitalised.

London Fire Brigade is investigating the incident, with a focus on the role of flammable cladding.

The building had been undergoing remedial work to replace non-compliant cladding.

The Fire Brigades Union has called for urgent action to address the ongoing cladding crisis across the UK, where hundreds of thousands of residents remain at risk.

Joint Code of Practice for managing escape of water on construction sites published

by ConstructionFeatured News

Guidance released for escape of water on construction sites

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has published a new Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) for the prevention and management of escape of water (EoW) on construction sites.

The guide was developed by RISCAuthority and the Construction Insurance Risk Engineers Group (CIREG) and is endorsed by the London Engineering Group (LEG) and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE).

As reported by the FPA, this first edition targets both permanent and temporary water systems within buildings.

The document provides a comprehensive approach to mitigating water damage risks on construction sites by addressing the root causes of escape of water.

It aims to reduce the frequency and severity of incidents during pre-construction and construction phases.

The guidance covers various plumbing systems, water storage, and mechanical systems, offering good practice across a range of construction and refurbishment projects.

A focus on risk management and collaboration

The new JCoP is designed to be applied across the supply chain, from designers and specifiers to contractors during construction, emphasising a collaborative, risk-based approach.

RISCAuthority Consultant Adrian Butler explained: “Insurers’ experience shows that the occurrence of water damage is one of the most prevalent causes of claims on construction sites.”

The code also outlines methods to mitigate the impact of water-related incidents and prevent project delays.

Butler further noted that the JCoP provides ways to address the root causes of EoW and manage the effects if incidents occur.

Impact on the construction and plumbing industries

Kevin Wellman, Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), highlighted the importance of reducing water leaks: “Millions of litres of water are wasted each day, with significant financial losses incurred due to damage to building fabric and other property.”

Wellman stressed that the new code contains essential information to help reduce and manage these incidents.

The CIPHE’s involvement in the development of the JCoP ensures that it addresses the technical challenges of plumbing installations.

It also reinforces the need for competent workers in preventing water escape issues, particularly in new build properties.

Insights from the insurance risk sector

The construction insurance sector also played a key role in creating the JCoP.

Olly Wright of CIREG stated: “This new Joint Code of Practice expands on, and is intended to replace, the CIREG 5th Edition.”

He highlighted the renewed focus on preventing water damage by incorporating technology that detects anomalous flow rates and can automatically isolate pipework outside of working hours.

Wright pointed out that water escape remains a leading cause of insurable loss on construction sites, stressing the importance of this updated guidance in addressing these risks.

Escape of water code of practice now available: Summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has published the first edition of the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) for Escape of Water Prevention and Management on Construction Sites.

This guide aims to address the risk of water damage across the construction sector and was developed by RISCAuthority and CIREG.

It covers various water systems and is applicable to both pre-construction and construction phases.

The guidance is endorsed by the London Engineering Group and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering.

It encourages a collaborative, risk-based approach and incorporates modern technology to prevent water-related incidents.

Quelfire highlights the importance of early engagement in construction projects

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsPassive

Quelfire’s campaign promotes early engagement in firestopping

Earlier this year, in February 2024, Quelfire launched its new campaign, “BECAUSE IT’S YOUR JOB TO KNOW,” which focuses on the importance of responsibility in firestopping.

The campaign includes a white paper discussing how early engagement, collaboration, and a clear understanding of responsibilities in firestopping can contribute to smoother project delivery and compliance with regulations.

As reported by Quelfire, firestopping is a complex process that involves more than just the installation of products.

The effectiveness of a firestop relies on several factors, including design, installation, and coordination between different trades.

Early communication between stakeholders is crucial to ensure that tested details and industry best practices are followed.

Early involvement critical for successful firestopping

The white paper emphasises that early engagement in firestopping, particularly at key project stages like the RIBA stages, can prevent complications later in the construction process.

Quelfire highlights the importance of understanding roles and responsibilities, especially the role of compartmentation and the proper testing and installation of firestopping products.

Quelfire believes that all involved parties, including architects, contractors, and firestopping specialists, should collaborate early to ensure that projects align with tested solutions.

This early involvement can prevent delays and additional costs associated with redesigning service penetrations after compartment lines and routes are determined.

Addressing competence and responsibility in firestopping

Quelfire stresses the importance of recognising one’s competence in firestopping.

Understanding when an individual’s expertise is insufficient can prevent mistakes that might compromise the integrity of the firestop.

According to the company, responsibility must be taken at every stage of the process, as early decisions affect the subsequent steps, positively or negatively.

Quelfire promotes education within the industry to address this, encouraging professionals to participate in CPD training, early engagement meetings, and other activities aimed at ensuring compliance with firestopping standards.

This approach, according to Quelfire, can make a significant difference in improving safety and efficiency in construction.

The role of firestopping in saving lives

Quelfire explains that the ultimate purpose of firestopping is to protect lives by ensuring that fire seals function correctly in the event of a fire.

The company asserts that engaging early in the firestopping process can enhance safety by allowing all parties to adhere to tested details and manufacturer guidance.

Considering service penetration sealing during the design phase can streamline the installation stage.

Early engagement allows stakeholders to align with the manufacturer’s support, ensuring the installation matches the tested firestopping system.

This approach, Quelfire notes, helps to avoid last-minute complications and potential project delays.

Firestopping company Quelfire highlights the importance of early engagement in construction projects: Summary

Quelfire’s new campaign, launched in February 2024, encourages early engagement and responsibility in firestopping.

The company explains that effective firestopping involves multiple factors, such as design, installation, and collaboration among different trades.

Early involvement in the process, particularly at key stages like the RIBA stages, can prevent delays and additional costs.

Quelfire also stresses the importance of understanding individual competence and responsibility in firestopping.

The company promotes education and collaboration within the industry to ensure compliance with firestopping standards.

Ultimately, the primary goal of firestopping is to save lives by ensuring fire seals function correctly during a fire.

Draft British Standard 8674 opens for public consultation

by ConstructionFeatured NewsResearch

Fire Sector Federation comments on draft British Standard 8674 for public consultation

The draft British Standard 8674 has been released for public comment, focusing on fire risk assessment competence in the UK.

As reported by the Fire Sector Federation, this draft Standard aims to reinforce professional standards within fire safety roles by defining clear competence requirements for fire risk assessors.

The Fire Sector Federation, which has long supported independent third-party assessment in fire-related occupations, views the draft Standard as a significant step towards improved oversight and competence in the sector.

The new Standard builds on existing efforts to establish a robust conformity-based system for assessing fire risk professionals.

Industry collaboration on fire risk assessor competence

The development of British Standard 8674 reflects years of collaboration among fire risk assessors and related industry stakeholders.

This new competence system is designed to ensure that individuals performing fire risk assessments are appropriately qualified and skilled.

The system, which integrates UKAS-accredited certification schemes and qualifications under the UK’s Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), will categorise fire risk assessors into three tiers of competence.

This tiered approach provides clarity for dutyholders, who are legally responsible for ensuring that fire risk assessments are carried out by competent professionals.

Transition to a conformity-based system

As part of this new framework, fire risk assessors with existing UKAS certificates or RQF qualifications are encouraged to evaluate their alignment with the draft British Standard.

The Fire Sector Federation, in collaboration with industry partners, continues to support the transition from unregulated fire risk assessment practices to a more structured and accountable system.

Ongoing work with UKAS and RQF organisations is aimed at facilitating the transition for experienced assessors, ensuring they meet the competence criteria outlined in the draft Standard.

This will aid both the fire risk assessors and dutyholders in adapting to the changes.

Impact on public safety and fire assessment clarity

The draft British Standard 8674, which is now open for public comment, is expected to simplify the often confusing landscape of fire risk assessment qualifications.

The new Standard will provide clear guidelines on what constitutes a competent fire risk assessor, helping dutyholders and the public gain confidence in fire safety assessments.

By aligning with this draft Standard, fire risk assessors will be able to demonstrate their competence more effectively, contributing to improved transparency in fire safety management.

This clarity is crucial as calls for better oversight in the fire safety sector continue to grow.

Modern methods of construction in UK housing debated by House of Lords

by ConstructionFeatured News

House of Lords examines modern methods of construction

The House of Lords Library has published a report on modern methods of construction (MMC) in the housing industry.

MMC includes building techniques designed to be more efficient than traditional methods.

The House of Lords Built Environment Committee has criticised the Conservative government’s approach to MMC.

The committee’s inquiry found that public investment in MMC had not been supported by a coherent plan or measurable objectives.

The Labour government has pledged to publish a long-term housing strategy in the coming months, which is expected to address these concerns.

Parliamentary committees review MMC strategies

Several parliamentary committees have investigated MMC over recent years.

In 2018, the House of Lords Science and Technology Committee noted the benefits of offsite manufacturing (OSM) in construction.

The 2019 House of Commons Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee raised concerns about the durability of MMC homes in the UK and urged the government to develop a coordinated strategy for MMC.

In 2022, the House of Lords Built Environment Committee highlighted the need for the government to reassure consumers about the quality and safety of MMC homes.

The committee emphasised the importance of official figures reflecting construction-related factory jobs.

Labour government announces new housing strategy

Following the 2024 general election, the new Labour government has committed to building 1.5 million new homes over the next parliament.

Angela Rayner, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, has stated that the government will restore housing targets to deliver around 370,000 new homes a year.

The Labour government will also publish a new long-term housing strategy in the coming months.

This strategy will include steps to ensure the construction of more high-quality, well-designed, and sustainable homes across the UK.

Barriers to MMC implementation identified

The House of Lords Built Environment Committee has identified barriers to the wider adoption of MMC, including risk aversion from insurance providers and challenges related to building regulations.

The committee found that the government had made limited efforts to address these issues.

In its 2023 inquiry, the committee recommended that the government take steps to acquire a better understanding of the construction industry, set achievable goals, and develop a coherent strategy to support MMC.

Lord Moylan, the committee’s chair, criticised the government’s approach, stating: “Simply throwing money at the sector hasn’t worked.”

Modern methods of construction in UK housing debated by House of Lords: summary

The House of Lords has been considering modern methods of construction (MMC) as a means of increasing housing supply in the UK.

The Built Environment Committee has expressed concerns over the government’s lack of a coherent strategy, despite significant public investment.

Several parliamentary reports have recommended improving government support for MMC and reassuring consumers about its quality and safety.

The Labour government has pledged to introduce a long-term housing strategy, which will aim to build more sustainable and well-designed homes.

The committee continues to call for clearer government objectives and support for the MMC sector.