Is offsite construction the solution to the housing shortage?

During May 2015, there were 14,392 homes registered with the National Housing Building Council – a 9% increase on last year’s figures.

However, it is still predicted that a total of 250,000 homes must be delivered each year in order to solve the UK’s housing crisis.

Shortage of labour supply

The most significant barriers to the supply of new homes are planning delays and time constraints, in addition to a shortage of labour supply: 49% of builders have recognised labour as an issue when it comes to building new homes, with major skills shortages in traditional construction.

The Institution of Mechanical Engineers has urged the government to use offsite construction methods as a solution to meeting the UK’s housing shortage.

UK House Building: Manufacturing Affordable Quality Homes lead author Dr Tim Fox said: “The new government needs to demonstrate real ambition, leadership and innovation, not make small piecemeal changes, if it is going to solve the UK’s housing crisis.

Overhauling the way the UK construct homes could be the quickest and most effective way of doing this.

Offsite construction technologies have advanced greatly in recent years and can offer shorter build times, better quality, better energy efficiency, less waste, and lower costs to buyers.

The report states that although offsite construction demands less labour than traditional methods, there is still a need for government support in developing the skills required to grow the sector.

It also states that the government must reverse policies working against improvements in quality and standards and that the government should work harder to diversify the UK housing supply market.

Explore Offsite – Housing

Offsite construction is the central focus of the next Explore Offsite – Housing event, held at The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham on 7th July 2015.

Explore Offsite will demonstrate how offsite construction can benefit professionals from across the housing spectrum.

From the future of public sector housing, to mixed use and private sector investment, the conference and exhibition will provide a critical analysis of alternative methods to deliver sustainable, energy efficient homes.

250 industry professionals will be in attendance alongside circa 30 offsite technology manufacturers.

Tickets are available at £95 VAT on the Explore Offsite website