KEEPING VULNERABLE

If we are to endure a bleak mid winter, that isn’t good news for the vulnerable in society. The UK statistics on homelessness, unemployment, mental health issues and economic struggles sadly seem to rise while the NHS appears to have waiting lists for the waiting lists …and this is mirrored regarding Housing Association schemes.

When it comes to the housing market, graduates and young professionals continue to be priced out of the Capital. The financial watchdog is continuing to advise the elderly to consider downsizing to tackle the growing housing shortage.

The potential in off-site manufacturing is still of interest, and it is sending out a strong message, that demonstrates the effectiveness and viability of prefabricated homes as a solution to the housing crisis. Most construction focused expos this year have demonstrated that this is very much an area for development. Green building and conservation appear to be top of the list for discussion as climate change continues to dominate construction news.

Although prefabs create excellent options for helping to bridge at the ever widening gap in respect of reducing building and construction costs, thought must be given to overall quality of the properties particularly if the changes in climate, with unprecedented weather extremes continue to increase. With traditional housing build time being months over weeks due to the levels of engineering and craftsmanship involved, it is possible that weather extremes such as those we have had over the last few years, will help to demonstrate the standards of the finished prefab.

Architects have shown some concern regarding prefabricated options in that they could become an excuse for local authorities not to deliver affordable, long term solutions. There are clearly some advantages that can be gained from prefabs, especially as a good solution for housing the homeless.

No doubt costs and labour shortages will continue to have a negative impact moving into 2023, although that is not expected to be too detrimental to the overall picture.

Looking ahead to next year, despite sustained cost pressures and other challenges, there is still a lot of opportunity in construction. Infrastructure upgrades alongside smart-city initiatives will undoubtedly continue to increase as urban regeneration continues. Combining green initiatives into new commercial developments will also be a focus for some innovators - apparently, moss is a solution to removing some of the air pollution in bigger cities.