Offsite Magazine - Issue 53

Reshaping Student Living Precast concrete’s compelling solution to certainty, consistency and long-term performance

P32

Understanding Frameworks An essential route for offsite providers into the public sector marketplace. How do they work?

P54

Offsite Awards 2026

Hot off the judge’s scorecards.

Are you one of this year’s chosen projects, products or people?

P58

July / August 2026 Issue 53 / £4.95

Dedicated to offsite design, manufacture and delivery www.offsitemagazine.co.uk

LEADING FROM THE FRONT THE UK’S APPROACH TO MODULAR MANUFACTURE

THE LEADING PRECAST FRAME MANUFACTURER ACROSS THE UK & IRELAND

O’Reilly Precast delivers high-quality full-frame and Architectural Wall Panel (AWP) solutions designed to accelerate construction programmes.

Our offsite-manufactured systems enable rapid installation, reduced site labour, and consistent, factory-controlled quality across projects throughout Ireland and the UK. Designed and manufactured in-house, our approach is built around one dedicated team focused on your project, with the flexibility to adapt as plans change.

OREILLYPRECAST.COM

Talk to our precast team about accelerating your next build

0121 630 3472 sales@oreillyprecast.com oreillyprecast

WELCOME JULY/AUGUST 2026 Editorial

Gary Ramsay / Consultant Editor T: 01743 290001 E: gary.ramsay@offsitemagazine.co.uk

Factory Made Future

Advertising and Events

In a blast of trumpet blowing, welcome to the latest edition of Offsite Magazine, and one where we managed to squeeze in the shortlist for the Offsite Awards 2026, fresh from the judges table and available online.

Julie Williams / Digital and print sales T: 01743 290042 E: julie.williams@offsitemagazine.co.uk Rhian Morris/ Event enquiries T: 01743 290025 E: rhian.morris@radar-media.co.uk

Production and Finance

EACH YEAR the entries continue to offer a wide

The YPO’s ‘Modular Buildings and Modern

variety of projects. Whilst the approaches and

Methods of Construction (MMC) – 1230’ framework

solutions may be tried and tested ones, they

will be familiar to many readers. We hear more

Debra Brooks / Finance T: 01743 290001 E: accounts@offsitemedia.co.uk

always reveal distinct and innovative ways that

about how this is designed to remain flexible in

offsite manufacture offers clients, specifiers and

a market where construction costs and material

anyone wanting to engage with a ‘non-traditional’

availability can change quickly. As ever, the clarion

Publisher

method of building. This year’s Awards will also be

call is collaboration and early engagement leading

presented differently and come in a fresh format.

to ‘better-designed projects, stronger partnerships

Sian Hawkins / Production T: 01743 290006 E: sian.hawkins@radar-media.co.uk

Offsite Media Ltd Suites A & B Hermes House, Oxon Business Park, Shrewsbury SY3 5HJ T: 01743 290001 E: info@offsitemagazine.co.uk W: www.offsitemagazine.co.uk

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Print

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After years of informality, we have listened and taken on feedback from many within the offsite

The content of Offsite Magazine does not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or publishers and are the views of its contributors and advertisers. The digital edition may include hyperlinks to third-party content, advertising, or websites, provided for the sake of convenience and interest. The publishers accept no legal responsibility for loss arising from information in this publication and do not endorse any advertising or products available from external sources. The publisher does not accept any liability of any loss arising from the late appearance or nonpublication of any advertisement.

Content including images and illustrations supplied by third parties are accepted in good faith and the publishers expect third parties to have obtained appropriate permissions, consents, licences or otherwise. The publisher does not accept any liability or any loss arising in the absence of these permissions for material used in both physical and digital editions. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without the written consent of the publishers.

All rights reserved.

We also report from a trip to Aylesford to visit

industry – and further afield – and the Offsite

Polypipe Building Services’ facility. This is where

Awards 2026 will now be a classic, sit-down dinner.

innovative – if under-appreciated and unseen

Still fun and relaxed but with an additional bit

– elements of prefabrication happen. Whilst

of ceremony, prestige, better food and wine and

pipework and water-supply systems tend not to

a slice of entertainment. This will all take place

feature in the finest architectural publications,

during the Explore Offsite Conference on 15

for us they exemplify factory-led manufacture’s

September. Lots more about the 2026 shortlist

core benefits of precision design and pre-

and how to grab your dinner tickets inside.

assembly work, completed and tested in factory

A fresh voice this issue comes from the YPO. Frameworks are a well-trodden path to winning

Disclaimer

and more successful outcomes.’

conditions before delivered ready for on-site installation. Hassle and defect-free.

work and entering purchasing agreements

Many thanks and thumbs-up to all our

with the public sector. They are also principal

contributors, advertisers, and supporters for

mechanisms in keeping project pipelines rooted

their efforts and help with this issue. It is

and giving confidence to offsite providers.

really appreciated.

Gary Ramsay | Consultant Editor Email: gary.ramsay@offsitemagazine.co.uk We are always looking for the latest industry news, people appointments and project case studies using all types of offsite systems and products. For use both in print and online please send them to me at the contact email above.

Hear from key figures at the forefront of industrialised construction.

Listen on your favourite provider, just search Industrialise Podcast.

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

SEASONS 1, 2 & 3 AVAILABLE NOW

INDUSTRIALISEDCONSTRUCTION.CO.UK

03

INDUSTRY FIRST

JUNCTION FIRE TESTING METSEC SFS TO METSEC INTERNAL DRYWALL A Step Forward in Transparency and Confidence We’ve now completed a full-scale fire test of the junction between SFS systems and internal non-loadbearing drywall partitions, constructed and tested in line with the general principles of EN 1364-1.

For designers, it provides confidence.

For contractors, it provides clarity.

For the wider industry, it helps close a gap that has been open for too long

voestalpine Metsec plc www.metsec.com

04

Issue 53 July/August 2026

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CONTENTS JULY/AUGUST 2026

Leading the World in Modular Construction

06

Industry News

08

From healthcare to education, the UK is setting the global pace in non-domestic volumetric modular construction. Jackie Maginnis, Chief Executive of the Modular and Portable Building Association (MPBA), examines the factors that got it there and what continues to fuel innovation and growth.

News and developments from across the UK offsite industry and wider construction arena including: Premier Modular announces bumper £360million refinancing package, Oregon Timber Frame completes £25million factory makeover, HS2 continues more of its precast concrete beam installation and Portakabin unveil its new temporary living accommodation module at UKREiiF 2026.

24 Supporting Safe Timber Growth Changes to Approved Document B could have profound implications for timber construction and net zero aims. Andrew Orriss, Chief Executive of the STA provides some critical considerations.

42 The Vital Role of Insulation in MMC Superglass explore why effective insulation has become a key component of MMC systems as offsite design increasingly influences how new homes are designed and constructed.

28 New Homes Need New Strategy BUILDOFFSITE’s latest report argues that unlocking unused offsite factory capacity could transform housing delivery across the UK. Industry Advisor Fareita Udoh, outlines what needs to be done.

30 Hidden in Plain Sight Paul Cooper, SES Manufacturing’s Managing Director, shares his views on offsite manufacturing as the business continues to expand its mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) capacity.

32 Precast Concrete and Student Living With PBSA growing across the UK, universities, developers and contractors face increasing pressure to deliver schemes that can be built efficiently and provide a positive student experience.

44 The Cost-Effective Route to Net Zero Net zero is no longer an aspiration for the construction industry, it is a commercial, regulatory and environmental imperative – so be prepared. Ben Towe, Chair of the LSFA describes how.

48 Fire Test First Frameclad recently achieved the UK’s first BS EN 1366-3 floor penetration fire test in light steel frame construction. Joint Managing Directors Martin Jamieson and Nik Teagle, explain more behind its work.

50 Inside Polypipe Building Services’ Aylesford Factory Our latest factory visit sought to understand how the business is combining automation, injection moulding investment and prefabrication to improve efficiency, quality and overall project delivery.

36 Data-Driven Productivity Gains DfMA, digital technologies and AI are combining to improve construction productivity as the ‘winner of winners’ at the Industrialised Construction Awards 2026 showed.

54 Understanding How Frameworks Operate This core component of procurement strategy is often misunderstood outside the procurement profession. Louise Hardcastle, Buyer - Buildings at the YPO, offers some much-needed clarity on how they operate.

38 Why Micro-Factories and Why Now? Mollie Claypool, CEO of AUAR, sets out the case for micro-factories backed by construction-specific Physical AI to provide high-quality, sustainable timber homes quickly and confidently.

58 Offsite Awards 2026 Hot off the judge’s scoreboards, here are the shortlisted projects, products and people that have made the grade and been chosen as potential winners at the 2026 Awards Dinner to be held later this year.

Host a CPD Webinar Amplify Your Expertise: Connect Your Brand with a Targeted Construction Audience

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

BUILDINGLEARNING.CO.UK

Your CPD. Our Audience.

Maximum Impact.

05

COVER STORY MPBA

Leading the World in Modular Construction

1

From healthcare to education, the UK is setting the global pace in non-domestic volumetric modular construction. Jackie Maginnis, Chief Executive of the Modular and Portable Building Association (MPBA), examines the factors that got it there and what continues to fuel innovation and growth.

Image 1: Lister Community School. Courtesy McAvoy Group Image 2: Jackie Maginnis Chief Executive, MPBA

2

WE CAN’T CLAIM to have invented modular

demand exceptional standards of fire safety, acoustic

technology, but we were certainly there at the

performance, thermal efficiency and building

forefront as prefabricated buildings emerged globally

services integration. Manufacturing modules within

in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. But as

controlled factory conditions allows inspections and

pioneers, the UK has certainly grasped the batten

testing to be carried out at every stage, producing

and run with it. Although countries such as Japan,

a level of consistency that is often more difficult to

USA, Sweden and Singapore have also embraced

achieve through conventional site-based construction.

modular methods – the UK has developed a unique

The UK also benefits from a mature ecosystem of

combination of public sector demand, government

specialist modular manufacturers and an advanced

intervention and manufacturing expertise that has

and highly innovative supply chain, that we are

enabled the sector to thrive.

proud to represent amongst our ranks. Companies

For more than two decades, successive UK

with decades of experience in delivering modular

governments have encouraged adoption through

facilities for healthcare, education and commercial

offsite manufacturing procurement frameworks,

clients have continually refined their manufacturing

funding initiatives and infrastructure strategies.

processes, invested in advanced production facilities

Public-sector projects increasingly assess bids not only

and developed highly specialised expertise. This

on cost but also on productivity, sustainability and

established supply chain has given clients confidence

social value. Areas where offsite manufacturing and

that large-scale modular projects can be delivered

industrialised construction perform particularly well.

reliably and repeatedly.

Meeting exceptional standards

accommodation and education facilities are

Quality assurance represents another significant

particularly well suited to volumetric construction

advantage. Healthcare and education buildings

because they combine standardised layouts with

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Importantly, healthcare, hotel, student

06

COVER STORY MPBA

3

4

long-term ownership. Unlike speculative residential

is completed simultaneously on-site. Once delivered,

developments, where demand is sporadic and buyers

modules can be craned into position within days rather

often need extensive customisation, public-sector and

than months, dramatically reducing disruption to

commercial clients typically value certainty, durability

hospital operations. For healthcare providers under

and whole-life performance. These priorities

increasing pressure to expand capacity quickly, the

closely align with the strengths of industrialised

advantages are clear: faster delivery, improved quality

construction approaches.

control and greater certainty over programme and cost.

In the pursuit of productivity

Learning environments

As the construction industry continues to pursue

Education presents an equally compelling case

greater productivity, improved sustainability and

for volumetric construction. School buildings are

reduced carbon emissions, the UK’s leadership in

naturally repetitive, with classrooms, laboratories,

volumetric modular construction appears well

offices and sanitary facilities following standard

positioned to continue. While other nations may

layouts. This repeatability aligns perfectly

produce greater overall volumes, few have integrated

with factory manufacturing processes, where

factory-built solutions so successfully into the

standardisation drives efficiency without

delivery of essential public infrastructure.

compromising quality. As pupil numbers fluctuate

The UK’s experience demonstrates that when

and school estates require continual modernisation,

consistent demand, supportive procurement and

modular construction enables local authorities

advanced manufacturing come together, volumetric

and education providers to deliver new teaching

modular construction is not simply an alternative to

spaces quickly, often during school holidays,

traditional building methods – it becomes a smarter

minimising disruption to students and staff. The

way to deliver the infrastructure that modern

ability to manufacture classrooms offsite whilst the

communities need. The success of the UK market is

construction site preparation progresses has become

no accident. It is the result of decades of investment

one of the sector’s greatest advantages.

in offsite manufacturing and industrialised

Front Cover: University of Warwick Advanced R&D facilities with highly complex M&E services, with three new laboratories featuring highperformance concrete floors designed to accommodate both heavy and highly sensitive equipment, plus a 9-metre-high central processing hall, open-plan research area and offices.

Courtesy Portakabin

For over 20 years, I have championed the benefits

construction methods coupled with the practical

of volumetric construction, and I am proud to say

realities facing the nation’s hospitals and schools.

that our dedicated members – supported by the

Image 3: King’s College Hospital Willowfield Building.

Courtesy Premier Modular Image 4: George Eliot Hospital Ward. Courtesy Wernick Group

MPBA – have played a significant role in accelerating

Continuous investment

the upward trajectory of modular technology across

Perhaps the greatest catalyst has been the NHS. As

the UK. I have had the privilege of leading the MPBA

one of the largest publicly funded healthcare systems

for more than two decades. As the UK’s leading trade

in the world, the NHS requires continuous investment

body for the sector, we set the benchmark for best

in new facilities while maintaining uninterrupted

practice, quality and innovation, bringing together

patient care. Traditional construction methods often

architects, engineers, manufacturers, and supply

involve lengthy programmes, disruption to live hospital

chain partners to drive the industry forward. Through

environments and significant site logistics. Volumetric

focused advocacy, training and guidance, our mission

modular construction offers a compelling alternative.

is clear: to advance growth, support sustainability, and

Entire operating theatres, diagnostic centres, wards

elevate professional standards to deliver safe, efficient,

and outpatient facilities can be manufactured in

and high-quality spaces where people work, receive

controlled factory environments while groundwork

care, teach and learn. 

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Find out more at: www.mpba.biz

07

INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

SBS Strengthens Market Position with Acquisition of SBUK Group

News in Brief New Head of Technical at DTS Donaldson Timber Systems has appointed Grant Sanderson in a newly created role of Head of Technical for the UK. Grant said “My priority will be improving efficiency across our processes to free up more time for the team to focus on the core technical work and enhance our availability for front end support to customers and sales colleagues.

MPA Publish Series of EPDs

L-R: Chris Richards, Business Development, Josh Townend, Commercial Manager, Peter Barr, Managing Director and Ian Still, National Sales Director, representing SBS and SBUK Group.

SIP Building Systems Ltd (SBS) has successfully

performance requirements, the acquisition provides

completed the multi-million-pound acquisition

a larger platform to meet these demands. Combining

of SIP Build UK (SBUK Group) – creating the UK’s

increased manufacturing capacity with the proven

market leading independent provider of structural

benefits of SIPs, speed of construction and high

insulated panels (SIPs). This strategic acquisition

thermal performance whilst benefitting from the

brings together three of the UK’s most established

quality control of the offsite manufacturing.

SIP businesses, SBS, SIPCO and SIP Build UK (SBUK

Peter Barr, Managing Director of SIP Building

group) – forming a larger operation with over 50,000sq

Systems, said: “This acquisition is an important step

ft of manufacturing facilities, enhanced technical and

in the continued growth of SBS. Bringing SBS, SIPCO

design capability, increased production capacity and

and SIP Build UK (SBUK Group) together creates

national reach.

a business with greater manufacturing capacity,

Established in 2004, Liverpool-based SBS has

broader technical capability and a wider range of

grown rapidly to become one of the UK’s leading

solutions for our customers. The combined group

manufacturers of SIP systems. Operating across

is well placed to support projects of all sizes, from

a diverse range of sectors including residential,

individual homes through to large-scale residential

commercial and leisure developments, together

and commercial developments.

with military infrastructure, modular buildings and temperature-controlled environments.

“SIP Build UK (SBUK Group) has an excellent reputation within the industry, and we are excited

The award-winning SIP Build UK (SBUK Group)

about the opportunities that bringing our businesses

based in Normanton, West Yorkshire brings together

together will create for customers, employees and

the specialist brands SIP Build UK, Frame Build UK

partners. Customers, suppliers and project partners

and Clad Build UK. This combined capability creates

will continue to work with their existing contacts,

a powerful end-to-end offering, enabling the Group

while benefiting from the enhanced capability and

to design, engineer, manufacture and install high-

resources of the wider group.”

performance, thermally efficient structural timber buildings at scale.

UK (SBUK Group) added: “This acquisition combines

With the UK Government targeting the delivery

two of the leading providers in the UK SIPs market,

of 1.5 million new homes over the current Parliament,

creating a business with greater control of its supply

the drive towards net zero and the Future Homes

chain. I am extremely proud of the SBUK team and am

Standard, the need for fast, offsite, high-performance

sure that Peter and SBS will drive the business and

and energy-efficient construction solutions has

market forward at pace”.

now struggling with skilled labour and future

08

Issue 53 July/August 2026

Knauf Launch Insulation Carbon Calculator Knauf Insulation has launched a free, online embodied carbon calculator that allows specifiers to get a more complete view of the carbon impact of their chosen insulation.

In a single place, users can calculate the U-value of their chosen insulation – to reduce operational carbon – and the embodied carbon of the specified product.

Starship Lands in West Kirby Work has begun to install 14 offsite homes in the Wirral. The homes have been designed and built by Birkenhead-based manufacturer Starship. The development is in partnership with Magenta Living, Wirral’s largest affordable housing provider.

Dave Dargan, founder and CEO of the firm, said the EPC A houses will be installed in ‘around one and a half days, per house’.

Massive Euro Modular Homes Scheme

Chris Duckworth, Managing Director of SIP Build

never been greater. With traditional construction

The Mineral Products Association (MPA) has published five new sector EPDs for precast concrete cladding products. The new EPDs cover architectural grey precast cladding panels, architectural white precast cladding panels, precast concrete sandwich panels, brick-faced precast concrete cladding and stone-faced precast concrete cladding.

The updated declarations show a substantial improvement compared to the previous 2017 EPDs.

Europe’s largest modular housing development is well underway in Berlin.

1548 apartments are being delivered using more than 3000 volumetric modules. Daiwa House Modular Europe is looking to achieve a prefabrication level of up to 90%, using a steel frame system incorporating a concrete floor, wall systems, insulation and internal finishes before leaving the factory.

Source: www.sipbuilduk.co.uk

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PRECAST OFF-SITE BUILDING SOLUTION:

HOTELS/APARTMENTS BUILD-TO-RENT SPORTS STADIUMS EDUCATION MULTI STOREY CAR PARKS STUDENT RESIDENCE CUSTODIAL BUILDINGS

LIVERPOOL FC EXTENSION, LIVERPOOL

RDS STADIUM, DUBLIN

TALLAGHT STADIUM, DUBLIN

THE KIA OVAL CRICKET GROUNDS, LONDON

BRANDYWELL STADIUM, DERRY/LONDONDERRY

Byley 01606 843 500 Grantham 01476 562 277 www.offsitemagazine.co.uk www.linkedin.com/company/exploreoffsite

LORD’S CRICKET GROUND, LONDON

Littleport 01353 861 416 Toomebridge 048 7965 0471 Issue 53 July/August 2026

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09

INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

Huge Precast Beams for Birmingham’s Curzon Street station The construction of an enormous deck that will

the construction of the station, but up to now, it’s

and 68 narrower L-beams. While most of the beams

help support the platforms at Birmingham’s new

mostly been beneath the ground – focused on the

will be lifted directly into position with large crawler

HS2 station has begun with the first of more than

piling and foundations that will underpin the building.

cranes, up to 120 of the beams, which are closer

556 concrete beams lifted into position. The huge

That’s why it’s great to see the first beams in position

in proximity to the existing railway, are being lifted

horizontal beams – up to 34m long and weighing as

as we begin to assemble the enormous deck that

onto a specialised piece of equipment called a self-

much as 58 tonnes – will support the seven platforms

will support our seven high speed platforms. Once

propelled modular transporter (SPMT) to be moved

being built at Curzon Street station.

complete, Curzon Street will become a new gateway

into their final position.

Each one of the reinforced concrete beams is

to Birmingham, offering easy access to the city centre

Martyn Woodhouse, Project Director, Mace

being precast offsite before being moved into position

and connections to onward destinations, via tram,

Dragados Joint Venture, said: “Lifting these first

in a meticulously planned operation. It underlines

bus and rail, improving journeys and supporting

beams into place is a major logistical and engineering

the scale of the progress being made on the station

growth across the West Midlands.”

achievement, and a testament to the co-ordination

which will be covered by a huge arched roof the size

For most of their length, Curzon Street’s seven

across our teams and supply chain. Each installation

platforms will be built on a viaduct-like structure

has been carefully planned to ensure it’s carried

Once complete, the station will stretch for around

supported by 188 concrete piers. These will form

out safely and efficiently, particularly in such a

450m between Moor Street and Millennium Point. A

a huge 13,370sq m deck – the size of two football

constrained and operational environment.”

new tram stop will also be built under the station as

pitches - which will support part of the platforms and

At the peak of the work, more than a thousand

part of the line currently under construction towards

connect to the viaducts coming into the station from

people are expected to be employed on the Curzon

Digbeth and the site of Birmingham City’s new

the east.

Street project, both directly and via Mace Dragados’s

of London’s St Pancras International.

The beams – which are between 7 and 34m long

football stadium.

UK supply chain. To accommodate the growing

and weigh between 14 and 58 tonnes – are being

workforce, construction teams will soon begin moving

HS2’s construction partner, Mace Dragados, which is

manufactured in a factory in Ireland by Shay Murtagh

into a new temporary office block opposite Millenium

working with specialist subcontractors MPB to lift the

Precast before being delivered to site by road. To

Point, which will be the nerve centre for the next stage

concrete beams into place.

avoid traffic, the deliveries are meticulously planned

of the project.

Construction of the terminus is being led by

HS2’s Project Client for Curzon Street, Jonathan

and timed to arrive early in the morning when the

Berry said: “We’ve been making good progress with

roads are quiet. They are made up of 488 U-beams

10

Issue 53 July/August 2026

Source: www.hs2.org.uk

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At MTX, our flexible funding and managed service options streamline the delivery of essential hospital infrastructure, ensuring your wards, theatres and clinical spaces are ready when patients need them most.

East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust

Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust

By consolidating build, maintenance, and operational costs into a single monthly charge, our approach simplifies budgeting, accelerates approvals and provides future-proofed support across every stage of your project - all whilst ensuring a faster route from concept to completion, without compromising on quality.

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11

INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

Oregon Timber Frame Completes HQ Extension The introduction of two new automated panel lines has enabled Oregon to grow production from 3,500 timber frame house kits per year to 5,000, with plans to increase capacity further to 9,000 kits annually over the next two to three years. The expansion is also expected to create 50 additional manufacturing roles in Selkirk, alongside up to 30 further support positions as operations continue to grow. Production capacity is expected to increase by 43% once recruitment for these positions is complete. The company currently employs around 180 people at its Selkirk operation.

Peter Wade, Managing Director of Oregon Timber Frame Limited said: “This significant investment represents a major milestone for our Selkirk operation and demonstrates our long-term commitment to both the Scottish Borders and the wider UK timber frame market. The expansion not only allows us to increase our production levels but also create new employment opportunities in the area. As the business expands, there will be opportunities for upskilling and progression into management roles to ensure we also retain and develop our talent to support Oregon’s continued growth.”

The increased use of timber frame construction across Barratt Redrow’s brands, including Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, has been fuelled by its mission Oregon Timber Frame has completed the final phase of a major factory expansion

to build homes today that are ‘ready for tomorrow’. Sustainable building techniques

in the Scottish Borders as it scales operations to support continued growth. The

can also be seen at the Selkirk manufacturing site. Solar panels have been fitted

£25million investment followed the acquisition of the business by Barratt Redrow

to the office and factory roofs, and electric car charging points are available in the

in 2022. Since then, the company has built a modern office facility for over 60

car parks. Construction of the office and both factory extensions was managed

permanent staff and completed two major factory extensions at its Selkirk HQ.

by Wilson Bowden Developments, also part of Barratt Redrow, with Luddon

The north factory extension which opened in October 2025 increased the building’s square footage by 65% to 69,000sq ft while the recently completed

Construction supporting as the principal contractor. The fit-out of the space, as well as machinery installation, was managed in-house by Oregon.

extension to the south factory has increased its square footage by 50% to 25,000sq ft, significantly bolstering its manufacturing capacity.

Source: www.oregon.co.uk

Housing Forum Report Questions Procurement Timelines The Housing Forum has published a new report

Amongst the key recommendations include:

‘Procurement – the price we pay’, which argues that

standardise procurement processes, shifting mindsets

procurement timelines, fragmented decision-making

from risk transfer to risk management and speeding up

and risk-averse approaches are significantly increasing

procurement, with standardisation, parallel approvals

the cost of housebuilding, especially across the public

and faster governance cycles can all help speed up

sector. It also identifies practical opportunities to

procurement. This reduces exposure to inflation,

reduce costs and increase delivery of new homes.

reduces risks and therefore brings costs down.

The report comes at a time when rising construction

The report builds on The Housing Forum’s 2024

costs and viability pressures are already constraining

research, ‘The Cost of Building a House’, which

the delivery of new homes across the UK. Alex Notay,

estimated the average construction cost of a

Chief Executive of The Housing Forum said: “There is

standard UK home at £242,000 (excluding land). Since

growing concern about the rising cost of housebuilding

then, Housing Forum members report continued

and the sector’s ability to deliver the homes the UK

cost inflation and mounting challenges in bringing

urgently needs. What is less widely recognised is

forward viable development schemes. The Housing

the role procurement plays in driving those costs.

Forum argues that reforming procurement practices

This new report identifies procurement as one of the

represents one of the quickest and most practical

most significant – and most controllable – drivers

ways for councils and housing associations to improve

of development costs within the public sector. The

delivery and reduce costs within their control.

good news is that these costs are not inevitable. By

and speeding up decision-making, we can reduce costs

standardising processes, improving how risk is managed,

without compromising on quality, safety, or design.”

12

Issue 53 July/August 2026

Source: www.housingforum.org.uk

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INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

MAKAR to Design Eco-village Tackling Depopulation by the firm’s commitment to community engagement, placemaking, delivering lowcarbon homes, and creating houses that are affordable to heat and live in.”

Using a structural insulated panel (SIPs) timber design, MAKAR was one of several practices that applied through the tender process facilitated by the Communities Housing Trust, with funding from the Scottish Government’s More Homes Division. As part of its submission, MAKAR developed a series of conceptual designs and visualisations setting out its vision for the project and demonstrating its approach to creating a thriving, sustainable new community.

After a rigorous selection process, MAKAR emerged as KLCT’s choice to bring the project to build-ready stage. The trust recognised MAKAR’s vision, methodology and strong alignment with the local challenges of depopulation, fuel poverty, the MAKAR has been appointed by the Kyle and Lochalsh Community Trust (KLCT) to

need for community infrastructure, and support for local businesses, alongside

take forward design and survey work for the proposed Micro-Ecovillage at Ratagan

its commitment to community engagement, placemaking, low-carbon homes and

and Saraig, on the shores of Loch Duich. KLCT has recently purchased two sites at

creating places that are affordable to heat and live in.

MAKAR chief executive Neil Edgar said: “We are delighted to have been selected

Ratagan and Saraig from Forestry and Land Scotland.

The trust intends to build six affordable houses for rent and two business units,

for this project. We look forward to developing the trust’s plan further as we work

alongside five woodland crofts and a community growing area. Two affordable

through the design stages alongside the trust and the local community, helping

house plots and one market plot will also be made available across the two sites,

to shape a place that reflects local aspirations and supports future generations.”

with a potential camp site at Saraig and a community space at Ratagan.

MAKAR is set to begin developing these ideas further as it works through the

KLCT chair Maggie Byrne said: “We felt that MAKAR’s presentation showed a

design stages alongside the Trust and the local community.

strong awareness of local challenges of depopulation, fuel poverty, the need for community infrastructure, and supporting local businesses. We were also impressed

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Source: www.makar.co.uk

13

INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

CITB Publishes Construction Workforce Outlook 2026-2030

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) has

uncertainty while ensuring there are enough skilled

term needs to replenish and sustainably grow the

published its Construction Workforce Outlook 2026-30.

workers to meet the expected demand for longer-

workforce remain.”

The annual report sets out expected construction

term opportunities. Together, alongside government

demand over the next five years and the implications

and industry stakeholders, we can ensure the

Apprenticeships programme to help deliver the

for the construction workforce.

construction industry is equipped to deliver for the

Government’s homebuilding goal to build 1.5 million

UK’s future.”

new homes by 2029 while addressing regional skills

The Outlook shows growth is expected to return

CITB also recently unveiled a new Accelerated

to the industry over the medium-term, but that it

CITB has been producing the Construction

shortages across the construction industry. Part

continues to face ongoing pressures in recruiting

Workforce Outlook since 2006/2007 to provide

of CITB’s wider homebuilding support package,

and retaining the workforce it needs. The short-

evidence and insights into the number of workers

the programme aims to deliver 1,680 Accelerated

term picture for construction is challenging, with

needed to meet forecasted demand. It is still the

Apprenticeship starts across four years.

uncertainty and cost pressures affecting activity.

only report of this type for the construction industry

Meeting future demand will require sustained focus

and is compiled using a range of both backward- and

high levels of homebuilding activity and

on recruitment, training and supporting people into

forward-looking data. Having a view on changes

identified training gaps: Greater Manchester, West

construction jobs. This includes both attracting new

in the construction workforce and the need for

Yorkshire, the West Midlands, Kent, and Bedfordshire

entrants and replacing workers leaving the industry,

extra workers is a core part of helping CITB better

and Hertfordshire. Additionally, the Accelerated

and will require collaboration across industry,

understand future training needs.

Apprenticeships programme will feed into a new

stakeholders and Government to meet the demands of the workforce.

Mark Farmer, member of the Construction

National Construction Mayoral Network being

Skills Mission Board and Construction Leadership

created by CITB that is expected to launch later this year.

The Outlook provides a UK-wide view, alongside

Council, added: “There’s never been a more important

insights for nations and regions, helping industry and

time to be thinking about the strategic outlook for

stakeholders understand where demand is likely to be

the industry and its workforce needs. The latest

strongest and how workforce needs may change over

Construction Workforce Outlook published by CITB

time. Tim Balcon, CITB CEO, said: “The construction

indicates that despite industry currently grappling

industry is faced with balancing short-term business

with challenging economic conditions, longer-

14

Issue 53 July/August 2026

The first phase will focus on five regions with

The Construction Workforce Outlook 20262030 and supporting materials, including a web-based interactive tool and downloadable reports, are available at: www.citb.co.uk/cwo

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INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

Thurston Group Invests in Module Lifting Capacity Thurston Group is strengthening operational

Commenting on the investment, Matt Goff, Group

capability at its Wakefield site through investment

Managing Director at Thurston Group, said: “With

in upgraded yard handling infrastructure. Designed

the backing of GCH Corporation, we are continuing

to support increasing throughput, the acquisition of

to invest in practical improvements that strengthen

a Combilift Multidirectional Straddle Carrier, forms

capability within all our operations. It also reflects

part of a continued focus on improving operational

increasing activity across the entire business, and the

efficiency, removing constraints in production

need to ensure site infrastructure keeps pace with

flow and ensuring site infrastructure keeps pace

demand. The investment gives us greater control as

with demand.

activities scale, in turn improving production capacity

The new Combilift will enable completed modular

and reducing lead times, while also enabling higher

units to be safely double stacked, significantly

output from our existing footprint, ensuring we

increasing usable yard capacity without the need for

deliver more consistently for our customers. We

additional space. It will also improve the movement

manage high volumes of modular units across

of units through the yard, supporting more consistent

multiple live projects, which means maintaining

dispatch performance and reducing the risk of delays

control of the yard is critical to keeping production

needed to scale efficiently. As demand for high-

during peak periods. By improving how finished units

and dispatch aligned.”

quality modular solutions continues to increase,

are handled and positioned, the system is expected

Cassie Hutchings, CEO of GCH Corporation,

to reduce reliance on complex lifting operations

added: “This investment is another demonstration

equipment and capacity to support its customers

and lower manual handling requirements. This will

of GCH’s commitment to building long-term value

while maintaining high standards of quality, safety

allow teams to be deployed more effectively into

within Thurston Group. We believe sustainable

and delivery.”

higher-value activities, supporting productivity and

growth comes from investing not only in people, but

site efficiency.

also in the infrastructure and operational capability

it is important that Thurston has the facilities,

Source: www.thurstongroup.co.uk

Perkins&Will Selected to Design James Paget Hospital Perkins&Will’s proposals for James Paget’s new hospital have been developed in alignment with the NHP’s Hospital 2.0 guidelines, underpinned by a holistic approach to sustainability and regenerative design that informs the vision for the new campus.

The design adopts modern methods of construction (MMC), utilising repeatable designs within a standardised Hospital 2.0 approach.

“The redevelopment of James Paget University Hospital is critically important for Great Yarmouth and the wider region, delivering modern healthcare facilities that are fit for today and resilient for the future,” says Gonzalo Vargas, Health Practice Leader of Perkins&Will has been appointed to design and

contract administrator, and lead a multidisciplinary project

Perkins&Will’s London studio. “While aligned with the

develop plans for a replacement James Paget

team across all stages of the RIBA Work Plan.

Hospital 2.0 model, our approach also shows how it can

Hospital in Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, serving as lead

“It’s significant for James Paget Hospital, and for

work in practice, demonstrating that standardisation

consultant. The project is part of the Government’s

the wider programme, to be able to continue to work

and human-centred design are mutually reinforcing.

New Hospital Programme (NHP) and is among those

with Perkins&Will on the design and development of

By focusing on spaces beyond the modularised clinical

prioritised for rebuilding due to the presence of

the new hospital to meet the needs of communities

core, including arrival areas, concourse, gardens and

reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).

in Great Yarmouth and Waveney,” says Martin John,

staff environments, we are shaping how people feel as

Strategic Director for the New Hospital Programme in

well as how they move through the hospital.”

James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation

The project will be one of the largest construction

Trust is delivering the project alongside The Queen

the Norfolk and Waveney University Hospitals Group.

Elizabeth Hospital King’s Lynn within a single programme

“We look forward to building our partnership with

schemes in the area for decades and is expected

across the Norfolk and Waveney University Hospitals

Perkins&Will further – deploying their expertise in

to act as a catalyst for economic growth and

Group. Following a competitive process involving

masterplanning, architecture and technical design –

employment opportunities across the region.

stakeholder input and formal evaluation, Perkins&Will will

with input from our staff, patients and communities to

provide architectural services, act as a lead consultant and

realise the vision for James Paget’s new hospital.”

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Source: www.perkinswill.com

15

INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

SFS Launches MMC Capability Brochure SFS has a newly published MMC guide highlighting

Business Development Manager (MMC) for SFS,

how its high-performance fastening systems,

Phil Chambers, said: “We have proved ourselves to

assemblies, precision-engineered mouldings are

multiple clients in the sector by developing innovative

ideally suited to the evolving demands of offsite

solutions to challenges which result from changes to

construction.

the building regulations, as well as practical problems

Citing the mission of ‘inventing success together,

presented by trying to improve productivity, safe

the 16-page A4 publication offers system designers,

working practices and long-term curability, amongst

engineers, offsite fabricators and contractors a

other technical issues.

comprehensive overview of the company’s diverse

“Our solutions can tick all the boxes in terms

capabilities in contributing to a better future for our

of energy performance, the structural engineer’s

built environment. As one of the UK’s best regarded

requirements, and the needs of specialist sectors

NVELOPE support systems where concealed or

building envelope specialists, the company can

such as defence. Customers gain confidence from our

mechanically secret fixed solutions are desired.

provide fully tested and compliant solutions for

experience and the ability to offer fully engineered and

Throughout the brochure, users learn about the

roofing, façade installation, doors and windows, fall

tested, unique products. We are now finding that major

ways in which SFS engineers its fasteners to avoid the

protection and timber works.

players in MMC are coming straight to us rather than

need for pre-drilling, or to prevent them working loose

looking further afield, and I believe the new brochure,

due to thermal movement and vibration, while dealing

performance, fire resistance and durability as well as

along with our revamped website, will see us taking

with multiple overlaps or layers of different materials

all-round sustainability. Meanwhile, despite genuine

even more market share in the years to come.”

which require clamping together in new-build or retrofit

End users now demand higher standards of energy

advancements in insulation and other material

Amongst the product categories covered are

situations. The MMC publication emphasises that SFS

performance characteristics, it remains the case

metal, timber and concrete connections, fastening

can provide the digital tools and technical advice to

that interfaces, and their fixings present a potential

systems for metal roof and wall cladding, fastening

not only help specifiers fulfil NBS and BIM aspirations

weak spot particularly regarding cold-bridging and

systems for flat roofing, subframe systems for

but also possess the supply chain management

fire-stopping. This is why specifiers are seeking to work

rainscreen applications, fastening systems for

and service levels to ensure the timely delivery of

with manufacturers able to provide bespoke as well as

internal floors and ergonomic tools offering enhanced

construction projects, irrespective of their complexity.

standard products that can support and secure these

health and safety benefits. The document goes on

detail areas for the life of the building.

to explain specific applications such as the use of

Source: https://uk.sfs.com

Darwin Group® Hands Over ‘Temporary’ Theatres During Upgrade Work standard, ensuring care continues in a space that both

continue delivering care while we carry out important

feels and functions like a permanent theatre. Around

improvements to the Women and Children’s Hospital.

75% of the building was constructed offsite before

This is part of our wider ambition to modernise our

being delivered and installed at the hospital, helping to

estate at Doncaster Royal Infirmary and ensure our

speed up the build and reduce disruption on site.

buildings are fit for the future, following continued

The project forms part of the Trust’s longer-term

investment in our hospitals over recent years.”

Darwin Group® has handed over a new temporary

plans to modernise and improve the Doncaster Royal

theatre and ward facility to Doncaster Royal Infirmary.

Infirmary site, following several years of significant

Group added: “This has been a real partnership with

The facility has been introduced to support care

capital investment across its hospitals. Hospital leaders

the Trust to deliver a solution that keeps patient

while refurbishment takes place at the Women and

say the temporary setup will help maintain safe, high-

care and treatment running while essential works

Children’s Hospital, with work due to be completed in

quality care for local people throughout the upgrade,

are carried out. By combining modern methods

December this year. The unit includes two operating

ensuring services remain accessible and on time. As

of construction with permanent-grade standards,

theatres and a ward, enabling planned procedures to

well as supporting patient care, the facility has been

we’ve created a high-quality clinical environment

continue and helping to avoid delays or cancellations

designed with colleagues in mind. Natural light, more

that supports services without interruption, while

for local patients.

spacious working areas and improved layouts aim to

also offering flexibility for the future. This project is

create a more comfortable and practical environment

especially close to my heart as someone with strong

temporary theatres have been built to the same

for colleagues. The unit is also fully relocatable,

ties to the local area. It’s incredibly meaningful to

standards as permanent facilities, including the first-of-

meaning it can be reused for future projects, reducing

contribute to facilities that support my community

its-kind concrete floor for a hireable theatre facility and

waste and offering longer-term flexibility for the NHS.

and help ensure patients can continue to access vital

Designed and delivered by Darwin Group, the

a fully equipped operating environment.

Dr Kirsty Edmondson Jones, Director of

care when they need it most.”

While temporary hospital buildings are often

Infrastructure, said: “Keeping services running for

perceived as more basic, this facility sets a new

our patients is our priority. This facility allows us to

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Victoria Phillips, Partnerships Manager at Darwin

Source: www.darwingroup.co.uk

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INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

ROOT to Market Set to Unlock Growth in Regenerative Construction Materials ROOT to Market, a new national procurement

Value Match with support from a consortium of

transparent supply chains, and adopting climate-

Dynamic Marketplace, has launched to accelerate

organisations including Morgan Sindall Construction,

and nature-positive practices.

mainstream adoption of regenerative and low-carbon

Reconomy Connect, HLM Architects, Lignum Risk

materials across the built environment, creating

Partners, Cundall, Planit and Elliott Wood.

significant growth opportunities for businesses

Gary Newman, Managing Director,

David Shields, from Value Match added: “The marketplace is designed to build supply chain capacity rather than restrict it, assessing suppliers

specialising in sustainable products and services.

Woodknowledge Wales, said: “ROOT to Market

based on their maturity while actively supporting

ROOT to Market is live and is actively seeking projects

supports the UK’s climate and social value policy

them to improve over time. This approach opens

to procure through the marketplace.

direction, including its net zero targets and national

the door to a far broader range of organisations,

forestry and timber strategies, which identify the

including SMEs and regional producers, enabling

worth over £140billion annually, yet regenerative

growth of a domestic bio-based economy as critical

more diverse and scalable participation across

materials – those that minimise environmental

to national resilience.”

the industry.”

The UK construction sector represents a market

impact while contributing to the restoration of natural

The Dynamic Marketplace allows clients to

ROOT to Market also embeds social value

systems, often including bio-based, renewable or

access a pre-approved, curated supply chain

directly into its commercial model: as a not-for-profit

reclaimed materials with low embodied carbon –

at each stage of a project, without the need for

organisation operating on a 1% rebate, it invests the

currently account for only a small share. ROOT to

traditional open-market tendering, while maintaining

surplus made from a project being procured into a

Market has been developed to unlock this opportunity

competition and compliance with the Procurement

dedicated fund supporting local communities, skills

by aggregating demand, making quality materials

Act 2023. Participation is underpinned by a shared

development and supply chain capacity, ensuring

supply visible, and providing support and training for

Code of Practice, setting a clear direction of travel

that value generated through the marketplace

both suppliers and clients.

without creating unnecessary barriers. This includes

contributes to wider economic and social outcomes.

prioritising regenerative and circular materials,

ROOT to Market has been created by Woodknowledge Wales and procurement specialist

minimising embodied carbon, supporting ethical and

vertexcad.com/bd

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Source: https://roottomarket.org

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INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

Lynfield Mount Hospital Phase 2 Redevelopment Underway

L-R: Mike Woodhead, Chief Finance Officer (BDCFT), Sarah Jones, Chair in Common (BDCFT), Stephen Clayton, Preconstruction Director (McAvoy), Therese Patten, Chief Executive (BDCFT), Thean Joubert, Site Manager (McAvoy), Martin O’Neill, Contracts Director (McAvoy), Daniel McLaughlin, Site Engineer (McAvoy), Gavin Ward, Senior Contracts Manager (McAvoy), David Jones, Site Supervisor (McAvoy) Courtesy: leeboswellphotography.com

Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust has

block featuring 100% en-suite facilities, alongside

forward to working closely with the Trust to help

reached a major milestone in the redevelopment

the refurbishment of communal areas within the

create an environment that supports patients, staff

of Lynfield Mount Hospital, having officially broken

central building. Therese Patten, Chief Executive of

and the long-term future of the estate.”

ground on phase two of the £65million programme.

Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, said:

McAvoy is working with the Trust to deliver this next

“This is a really exciting milestone for the Trust and

“It’s fantastic to see work underway at Lynfield

stage of the redevelopment, which will include a new

our ambitious plans to deliver a facility that better

Mount Hospital – a major step forward for mental

two-storey, two-ward block with en-suite facilities,

supports the recovery and wellbeing of our people

health services in Bradford, supported by £65million

alongside the refurbishment of communal areas

who use our services. The upgraded facilities will

of government investment. High-quality, modern

within the hospital’s central building. In January

significantly enhance the experience of our patients

facilities are essential to supporting recovery, and

2026, the Trust received final approval from the

and will help them to return to their communities

this new development will provide patients with a

Department of Health and Social Care to proceed

as soon as they are able. The modernised spaces

safe environment alongside improved spaces for the

with its ambitious plans to redevelop Lynfield Mount

will also create a better working environment for our

staff who care for them. This investment reflects our

Hospital’s central building. The redevelopment

colleagues, supporting the Trust’s ambition of being

commitment to strengthening mental health services

follows a phased approach of planning, building and

the best place to work.”

and ensuring they are fit for the future. There is more

refurbishing over three years and all hospital services will continue throughout.

Phase one of the programme focused on enabling

In March 2026, the Trust signed a contract with

Minister of State for Health Karin Smyth added:

to do, but projects like Lynfield Mount show the real

McAvoy, who arrived at Lynfield in April to prepare

progress being made for patients, staff and local

the site to begin phase two. Martin O’Neill, Contracts

communities.”

works to prepare the site for work to begin. This

Director at McAvoy said: “We are proud to mark the

included the creation of a new staff car park and

groundbreaking of this important redevelopment and

completed by autumn 2027, when phase three will

woodland wellbeing walkway for visitors to the site,

to be helping deliver modern mental health facilities

commence. The overall redevelopment is currently

temporary relocation of the main entrance and

for the people who use Lynfield Mount Hospital’s

scheduled for completion in early 2029.

demolition of the former Estates and Facilities offices.

services. Our offsite manufacturing approach

The redevelopment team has now officially broken

directly supports the delivery of flexible, healthcare

ground in phase two of the redevelopment. This

accommodation, while maintaining high standards

next stage will deliver a new two-storey, two-ward

of quality and minimising disruption on-site. We look

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Phase two of the programme is expected to be

Source: www.bdct.nhs.uk/about-us/ lynfield-mount-redevelopment www.mcavoygroup.com

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INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

Oakleaf Launches New Bathroom Pod Division Construction company Oakleaf Contracts has

Oakleaf Contracts Director Philip McCoubrey

announced a significant expansion of its operations

said: “The launch of our modular division represents

with the launch of a dedicated modular manufacturing

an exciting new chapter for Oakleaf and enables us to

division, specialising in the offsite production of fully

combine our award-winning construction expertise with

fitted, custom-built bathroom pods.

advanced and highly specialised offsite manufacturing

and innovation,” said Nigel. “By introducing modular

This strategic move marks a major milestone for

capabilities. Our modular bathroom pods offer significant

manufacturing, we are broadening our service offering

the company, which is headquartered in Magherafelt,

advantages in terms of reduced on-site labour, improved

and positioning Oakleaf at the forefront of modern

Northern Ireland, with offices in Dublin and Sheffield.

quality control, minimising risk and supporting

construction – providing integrated solutions that

Operating from a 65,000sq ft facility in the Lancaster

sustainability objectives through reduced waste and

combine traditional contracting expertise with state-

area, the new division will specialise in the design and

more efficient manufacturing processes. The fact that

of-the-art manufacturing techniques to meet the

manufacture of self-contained, modular bathroom

we’ve been able to secure a contract for 3,300 pods so

evolving needs of the built environment.”

pods for the residential, student accommodation,

soon after our launch demonstrates both the strength

Founded in 2000, Oakleaf Contracts is a

hotel and healthcare sectors.

of the opportunity and the confidence clients have in

Northern Ireland-headquartered construction and

our approach. We look forward to building on this early

manufacturing business. With offices in Magherafelt,

environment before being transported to a construction

success and developing long-term partnerships with

Dublin and Sheffield, and a total workforce of 90 full-

project ready for installation – complete with fixtures,

clients across multiple sectors.”

time and up to 200 sub-contracted staff, the company

The pods are built in a controlled factory

fittings, plumbing, electrical components and finishes.

Headed up on the ground by Oakleaf Commercial

has built a reputation for delivering complex, large-

Oakleaf has already picked up a major contract, on the

Manager Nigel McCarthy (pictured), the new modular

scale projects across the healthcare, hospitality,

back of the launch, to supply 3,300 modular bathroom

division will provide immediate employment for

commercial, residential and technology sectors.

pods for a large-scale student accommodation

50 staff in the Lancaster region. This investment

development at a leading English university.

underlines our commitment to long-term growth

Source: www.oakleafcontracts.com

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19

INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

Kane Facility Expansion Increases Offsite Manufacturing Capacity Banbridge based MEP contractor Kane has commenced a significant extension of its manufacturing facility as part of a strategic investment to expand its offsite manufacturing capacity and support delivery of the company’s largest multimillion pound contract to date.

L-R: Ed Venney, Head of Offsite at Kane, Colin McCaffrey, Architect at Tate Stevenson and Fiachra Coyle, Kane Project Manager.

Kane is undertaking major upgrades at its existing Banbridge factory, including the demolition of outdated spray and storage buildings and the construction of a

to advancing offsite manufacturing. The new extension will not only enhance our

new 20,445sq ft. extension. This significant expansion, being delivered by Kane’s

production capacity but also ensure we are equipped to meet the evolving needs

construction division, Kane Construct, will enhance and futureproof the company’s

of our clients. By modernising our facilities and streamlining our processes, we are

fabrication capabilities.

strengthening our ability to deliver high quality, innovative solutions at scale. This

The new facility will create the space required to optimise and streamline production processes, with dedicated areas for assembly lines, sandblasting, welding, spray booths, and product testing. By increasing fabrication capacity and

development underscores our long term vision for the business and reflects the dedication of our entire team in driving Kane forward.”

Kane is a multi award winning mechanical, electrical, and offsite construction

improving workflow efficiency, the extension will directly support higher output,

specialist delivering high quality engineering solutions across the UK, Ireland,

improved quality control, and greater operational resilience.

and Europe and provides a full suite of services including design, prefabrication,

In parallel with the main works, Kane has also upgraded existing fabrication staff

installation, commissioning, and facilities management. Recent projects include

welfare areas into a newly created, modern space. This investment underscores the

Trinity by Breakthrough in Oxford, Claridge’s Hotel, and Wood Wharf in London.

company’s commitment to providing a high quality, safe, and comfortable working

Kane continues to invest in its people, technology, and manufacturing capabilities

environment for its teams and allowing for continued recruitment.

to support long-term growth and deliver future ready engineering solutions.

Cathal McMullan, Managing Director at Kane, commented: “This investment represents a significant milestone in our continued growth and in our commitment

Source: www.kanegroup.co.uk

Premier Modular Receive Massive Investment Boost “This refinancing is an important milestone for Premier Modular and reflects the confidence our banking partners have in the business,” said David Harris, Premier Modular CEO. “We have built a market-leading platform with a high-quality, modern fleet and a long-standing customer base, and this financing gives us the firepower to continue investing in that platform. Demand for flexible, high-quality modular space in the UK has never been stronger, and we are well positioned to capitalise on that opportunity.”

Premier Modular sees the UK modular buildings market benefiting from strong Premier Modular recently announced the successful closing of a £360million

structural tailwinds, driven by sustained investment in social infrastructure and

refinancing package comprising a term loan, capex facility and revolving credit

increasing demand for flexible solutions. Government-backed programmes across

facility. Backed by Cabot Square Capital and MML Capital Partners through their

education, healthcare and infrastructure (including data centres and energy

Keystone infrastructure-focused fund, it provides a huge opportunity for innovation

transition-related projects) are providing a large and visible pipeline of demand.

and development.

Customers are also increasingly turning to modular solutions for their strong

The transaction was supported by a syndicate of leading European

sustainability credentials, with offsite manufacturing and a circular asset model

infrastructure lenders, reflecting deep lender confidence in Premier Modular’s

enabling modules to be reconfigured and redeployed over their lifecycle, reducing

business model, the quality of its fleet and the structural growth dynamics of

waste and lowering whole-life carbon intensity relative to traditional construction.

the UK and western European modular building market. The financing attracted

Against this backdrop, Premier Modular is strongly positioned as a leading premium

significant interest across the lender community, underscoring the strength of the

provider within the sector. The company operates a large, modern fleet and has a

Company’s credit profile and growth trajectory.

proven track record of delivering complex, multi-year projects for public and blue-chip

The new facilities provide Premier Modular with an enhanced capital structure to fund continued investment in its fleet, pursue selective growth opportunities

private sector clients. Its leasing-led model generates high-quality, recurring revenues, underpinned by long-standing customer relationships and strong forward visibility.

and serve its expanding customer base across the education, healthcare and Source: www.premiermodular.co.uk

infrastructure sectors.

20

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21

INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

Offsite Makes a Mark at UKREiiF 2026

As UKREiiF enters its fifth year, the Leeds-based event

shortages, deliver major infrastructure projects and

‘meanwhile’ sites, helping local authorities respond

has firmly established itself as the UK’s answer to MIPIM.

meet net zero targets, factory-built construction is

to housing pressures without the lengthy lead times

While it may lack the Mediterranean glamour of Cannes,

increasingly being viewed as a mainstream solution

associated with traditional construction. Alongside

it has evolved into a unique blend of trade exhibition,

rather than a specialist alternative.

the prototype, the company showcased a wider range of modular homes, from studio apartments to family

political forum, investment showcase and networking

York-based modular specialist Portakabin used the

festival, bringing together developers, contractors, local

event to launch ‘Jordan’s Home’, a transitional housing

authorities, investors and policymakers to shape the

concept developed with youth homelessness charity

Speaking about the offer to local authorities,

future of the built environment.

Centrepoint. Designed as a rapidly deployable, scalable

Dan Ibbetson, CEO at Portakabin, said: “Too many

accommodation.

With more than 16,000 delegates and over

and cost-effective stepping-stone home, the model

young people are being held back by a lack of suitable

£300billion of investment opportunities represented,

provides temporary accommodation for young people

housing. Our Stepping Stone homes have been

UKREiiF 2026 once again demonstrated its growing

experiencing homelessness while supporting access to

designed to change that, providing not just a roof

influence, acting as a hub for regional and national

employment, education and permanent housing.

over someone’s head, but a real foundation for future

While speed of construction has long been

independence. Our model provides a transitional

a key selling point for offsite manufacturing, the

home until permanent housing is available. We’re

housing debate is increasingly focused on delivering

thrilled to have worked alongside Centrepoint to bring

prominent role of offsite manufacturing in tackling

social value and addressing urgent public sector

Jordan’s Home to life and offer a practical, high-quality

the UK’s housing delivery challenges. As the sector

challenges. Portakabin highlighted how modular

solution that can be delivered and adapted at pace,

faces mounting pressure to address housing

housing can be deployed quickly on temporary or

when and where it’s needed most.”

conversations on property, urban investment, infrastructure and economic growth across the UK. A familiar theme this year was the increasingly

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INDUSTRY NEWS JULY/AUGUST 2026

associations and developers examining how planning

value rather than operational carbon alone. Offsite

across the industry. The UKREiiF Insight Report

reform, investment and new delivery models can

and modular construction were frequently highlighted

2026 identified rising construction costs, material

increase supply. There was broad agreement that

as enablers of circularity through reduced waste,

shortages and continuing supply chain pressures

achieving national housing targets will require greater

improved material management and the ability to

as major barriers to delivery. Against this backdrop,

collaboration between the public and private sectors

relocate, refurbish or repurpose buildings over time.

offsite manufacturing is increasingly recognised for

alongside wider adoption of manufacturing-led

its ability to improve programme certainty, quality

construction.

The prominence of MMC reflected wider concerns

Across three days, steering through the many streams of presentations, speeches, seminars,

Housing and Planning Minister Matthew

pavilions and myriad fringe events means you miss

Pennycook announced the government is working

out on a lot of material. But as the conversations

of British Industry (CBI), which launched its report

with (undisclosed as we went to press) 23 local

surrounding a more sophisticated and integrated

‘Pipeline to Progress: Making UK Infrastructure Investable’

authorities to create a pattern book of standard house

approach to the UK’s regional development grow, Leeds

in partnership with law firm Browne Jacobson. It calls on

designs, which MHCLG intends to publish by the end

and UKREiiF become the epicentre for government,

government to mandate MMC within future public-private

of the year. He said the designs would: “help unlock

investors and developers to gather to develop faster, a

partnership models, arguing that design for manufacture

economies of scale to support investment in MMC,

more sustainable and cost-effective built environment.

and assembly (DfMA) can accelerate infrastructure

remove barriers for SME developers, and help local

UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure

delivery while reducing project risk.

authorities deliver homes on small sites they own.”

Forum (UKREiiF) will return in 2027 on 18-20 May.

control and cost predictability.

Support for offsite also came from the Confederation

Housing delivery remained the central issue

Alongside housing, sustainability discussions

throughout the event, with local authorities, housing

focused on circular economy principles and whole-life

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Source: www.ukreiif.com

23

FEATURE STRUCTURAL TIMBER

Supporting Safe Timber Growth 1

Changes to Approved Document B could have profound implications for timber construction and the UK’s net zero targets. Andrew Orriss, Chief Executive of the Structural Timber Association (STA) provides some critical considerations.

THE GOVERNMENT has been consulting on changes to Approved

11 metre thresholds

Document B, the fire safety guidance that sits alongside the

This review didn’t come from nowhere. The Grenfell Tower Inquiry

Building Regulations. The consultation was run jointly by the

Phase 2 report recommended that Approved Document B be kept

Building Safety Regulator, the Health and Safety Executive, and

under continuous review, and this set of changes is the latest step

the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

in that process. The areas covered include cavity barriers, rules for

It applied to England and closed on 1 July, so it is no longer open

work on existing buildings, external wall systems, and a proposed

for responses.

height threshold above which buildings with combustible structural

Before getting into the detail, it is worth clearing up a point that keeps coming up in discussions about this consultation,

elements, including timber, would need to look beyond Approved Document B for their fire strategy.

including in the STA’s own response. Approved Document B is

That last point, the 11m threshold, is where most of the industry

not the regulation. It is statutory guidance on ways to meet the

attention has landed. The government’s reasoning is that the guidance

regulation. The Building Regulations set the legal requirements.

in its current form was written with reference to construction

Approved Document B – like the other Approved Documents – sets

methods and materials from decades ago, before combustible

out one way (not the only way) of satisfying them. That distinction

structure and insulation were used at the scale, they are today, and

matters, because much of the anxiety around this consultation

that taller or more complex buildings need a different approach.

comes from people reading the guidance as if it carries the force of

The STA does not disagree with the principle of a threshold. Its

law. It doesn’t. Alternative routes to compliance, using recognised

response supports the idea that there should be a point above which

standards such as BS 9991, BS 9999 or BS 7974, are equally valid.

Approved Document B guidance no longer applies on its own.

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FEATURE STRUCTURAL TIMBER

2 Where it takes issue is with how the threshold is drawn. A single cut-off at 11m, applied the same way to a four-storey timber frame house and office block or school, does not reflect how different those buildings are actually used. The STA response includes requests for more categories: different treatment for residential and non-residential buildings, and clearer thinking about long-standing building types, such as exposed oak frame structures, that could otherwise be caught by wording that presumably wasn’t really aimed at them.

Clarity required The other significant concern is about clarity, not

3

intent. Some of the drafting, if read literally, could restrict the use of OSB sheathing and common insulation types in ordinary low-rise timber frame

only holds if the detail gets fixed. As currently drafted,

housing. The STA doesn’t believe that is the goal of the

several of the changes would make it harder to build

consultation. But guidance will be read by people who

in timber, not easier, so unless the BSR clarifies its

are not fire engineers, and if the wording allows for

intent and amends the proposals, the guidance

that reading, it will get read

won’t end up matching the

that way project designers

Roadmap it says it supports.

The STA will keep trying

and building control

to liaise with the Building

officers. The STA’s request is straightforward: say what is intended clearly, and where guidance doesn’t yet exist for a particular building type or method, say that too, so that people know when they need to bring in a specialist rather than guessing.

Images 1-3: Increasing the levels of timber frame construction is central to the UK’s net zero ambitions and solving the perennial housing crisis

A single cut-off at 11m, applied the same way to a four-storey timber frame house and office block or school, does not reflect how different those buildings are actually used.

Safety Regulator now that the consultation has closed and will, if necessary, work with the regulator and other stakeholders to develop further guidance for Industry where this is required. If low-rise timber frame dwellings require

None of this is an argument against timber construction. The STA has

guidance outside of Approved Document B to

said plainly that it supports what government is

demonstrate compliance without a significant shift in

trying to do here. Reviewing fire safety guidance after

product used, then that would be disappointing. 

the Grenfell Inquiry is right, and the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has stated that this consultation is in line with the Timber in Construction Roadmap, which backs timber use to cut embodied carbon. The STA

The Approved Document B consultation page is still accessible at: https://consultations.hse.gov.uk/bsr/reviewof-approved-document-b-fire-safety/consult_view

doesn’t dispute that goal. Its point is that the claim

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Find out more at: www.structuraltimber.co.uk

25

FEATURE FABRIC FIRST

1

2

Building Fabric in the Age of High-tech Homes Martin Twamley, Technical Director at STEICO, provides a wider understanding of the Warm Homes Plan proposals alongside the established benefits of adopting a fabric first methodology.

THE WARM HOMES PLAN has arrived to replace the

Due to issues with the quality of solid wall insulation

Energy Company Obligation (ECO) and represents

in the ECO scheme, there appears to be a reluctance

a shift in focus away from a fabric first approach to

to continue to support this under the Warm Homes

prioritise solutions such as PV, battery storage and heat

Plan and cavity wall insulation barely gets a mention

pumps. This change in emphasis raises an important

in the document. This seems strange as according to

question – is abandoning the long-established principle

the Energy Saving Trust around 33% of heat can be lost

that improving the building fabric the best way to

through the walls of uninsulated homes.

deliver energy-efficient homes, with improved thermal

It is important to carry out a thorough survey of

comfort and indoor air quality as well as low running

an existing home to be able to evaluate and plan the

costs really the right course of action?

most appropriate energy efficiency measures taking

The fabric first strategy is founded on sound

a whole-house approach. This has been addressed by

principles. Improving the thermal performance of

using a Publicly Available Standard 2035 (PAS 2035).

Image 1: The £15billion government Warm Homes plan is designed to cut bills, tackle fuel poverty, create jobs and deliver energy security.

Image 2: Timber components and a fabric first approach is central to sustainable homes

the building fabric, including the walls, floor, roof, windows and doors to enhance the overall energy

PAS 2035 and its fabric first approach

efficiency of a home. Whenever the fabric is enhanced,

PAS 2035 was developed to detail the best way

it is important that an adequate ventilation strategy is

to conduct a retrofit designed to improve energy

also in place to remove stale air and moisture vapour

performance of existing buildings. It includes the

to maintain good indoor air quality. The fabric first

requirements to carry out a thorough survey of the

measures reduce the demand placed on the heating

existing property. This allows the creation of a risk

system. As a result, it must work less and consume

assessment to determine the project’s complexity and

less energy.

decide upon the design and installation of the most appropriate energy efficiency measures. By addressing

What part does building fabric play in the Warm Homes Plan?

the property in this way, the enhanced thermal efficiency

The £15billion government Warm Homes plan is

any subsequent high-tech additions such as heat pumps.

designed to cut bills, tackle fuel poverty, create jobs

of the building fabric reduces the heating demands on A technology led approach where PV, batteries and a

and deliver energy security. Energy efficiency is

heat pump is installed will give homeowners the benefits

very hard to achieve without paying attention to the

of access to cheap electricity and help to reduce carbon

thermal performance of the building fabric. This is

emissions. It may not be able to match the benefits that

supported in the Warm Homes Plan document, where

addressing the fabric first can bring. Both approaches bring

it states that: “Fabric insulation measures, when

different benefits – together they can work in harmony

installed with appropriate ventilation, remain

to deliver high-tech homes that support thermal

a cornerstone of energy efficiency.”

comfort, low energy use and lower energy bills. 

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ADVERTORIAL ZEHNDER GROUP UK

MVHR Installation Doesn’t Have to Be a Game of Tetris As Jason Bennett, National Business Development Manager at Zehnder Group UK explains, with offsite construction, every millimetre matters – especially when dealing with ventilation.

FINDING ROOM for ventilation can become a

horizontally, vertically or at an angle gives

major design headache. Many installers describe

designers greater freedom when integrating

fitting Mechanical Ventilation with Heat

ventilation into factory-built modules.

Recovery (MVHR) units into compact buildings

Flexible bi-directional spigots also

as ‘a game of Tetris’ – squeezing equipment into

maintain smooth airflow regardless of

ceiling voids, cupboards or service zones while

orientation, while a double-rotating

maintaining accessibility for installation and

condensate drain removes the need for

future maintenance. In offsite manufacturing

inclination during installation. These small

environments, where repeatability, efficiency

design features can significantly simplify

and precision are critical, these constraints can

factory assembly, reduce installation

create unnecessary complexity.

complexity and minimise co-ordination

The ultra-slim MVHR, EVO, is Passivhaus certified and removes many traditional barriers to specification.

Zehnder’s new ultra-slim MVHR,

challenges on-site. This creates greater

EVO, is Passivhaus certified and removes

freedom in pod and module design –

combat overheating, and features integrated

many traditional barriers to specification.

opening opportunities to incorporate

acoustic insulation and anti-vibration

At just 210mm deep, it can be installed

MVHR into developments that once were

mounts to enhance occupant comfort. 

within ceiling voids, slimline cupboards

considered unsuitable. The Zehnder EVO

and pitched roofs where conventional

delivers up to 90% heat recovery efficiency,

systems won’t fit. Its ability to be mounted

incorporates a 100% summer bypass to help

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27

FEATURE HOUSING

New Homes Need New Strategy

As housing demand and sustainability targets intensify, BUILDOFFSITE’s latest report argues that unlocking unused MMC factory capacity could transform housing delivery across the UK. Industry Advisor Fareita Udoh, outlines what needs to be done.

1

Images 1-2: Factory-led manufacture of new housing is still not used to its full potential with factories operating at 40-60% utilisation

THE UK stands at a pivotal moment in its housing

labour shortages and inconsistent planning

and climate journey. With the Future Homes Standard

requirements.

approaching, New Towns gearing up for delivery, and for warm, safe, affordable homes, the country faces

Missing infrastructure for a modern housing system

a simple truth: traditional construction cannot meet

At the same time, the report highlights that MMC

the scale, speed or performance required. Modern

factories across the UK have: “unused capacity that

Methods of Construction (MMC) can – but only if the

could deliver thousands of additional homes each

sector’s manufacturing capacity is stabilised and

year.” A Shared Capacity Platform could potentially

fully utilised.

unlock this dormant capacity. The platform is

the Proud to Call It Home Inquiry setting out a vision

A new report from BUILDOFFSITE, ‘Unlocking

described by industry participants as: “the missing

MMC Capacity: Delivering Future Homes’, sets

infrastructure that turns MMC from a series of pilots

out a bold, sector-led solution: a National Shared

into a national delivery system.”

Capacity Platform designed to co-ordinate factory

Its core functions include:

utilisation, unlock hidden production capacity, and transform MMC from a patchwork of pilots into

•

Mapping real-time factory availability

a national delivery system. As the report states:

•

Matching demand to unused capacity

“Unlocking downtime unlocks delivery. Unlocking

•

Co-ordinating pipelines across regions

delivery unlocks homes. Unlocking homes unlocks

•

Reducing insolvency risk

opportunity.”

•

Lowering unit costs

•

Accelerating delivery to market.

The UK must deliver Future Homes Standardcompliant homes from 2028, accelerate regeneration, and meet net-zero construction goals. Yet MMC

28

Crucially, it supports both large manufacturers

factories – the very infrastructure needed to deliver

and SMEs, ensuring the benefits of industrialised

this – are operating at just 40–60% utilisation. This

construction are distributed across the supply chain.

underuse is described as: “the single biggest barrier

The Offsite Guide (TOG) is credited with originating

to scaling up MMC and industrialised construction.”

and sponsoring the platform concept, convening

The consequences are visible across the sector: factory

manufacturers, clients, government partners and

closures, volatile demand, fragmented procurement,

innovators to shape a practical, sector-led solution.

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FEATURE HOUSING

Enabling the Future Homes Standard The Future Homes Standard demands high airtightness, low thermal bridging, heat pump integration, solar readiness and consistent fabric performance. The report is unequivocal: “Traditional construction cannot reliably deliver these at scale.

MMC can – but only with stable demand.” The Shared Capacity Platform supports FHS delivery by: •

Enabling factories to invest in FHS-ready systems

•

Providing standardised evidence packs to reduce planning friction

•

Supporting repeatable, high-performance designs

•

Offering digital assurance for compliance

•

Increasing utilisation to lower costs.

This alignment between industrial capability and

2

regulatory ambition is essential if the UK is to meet its 2028 targets. ex-manufacturing workers and young people entering technical careers.

Supporting national priorities

With stable demand, factories can become ‘national reskilling hubs’ supported

The Proud to Call It Home Inquiry called for clearer

by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund, Career Transition Partnership and Mayoral

national direction on MMC, stronger supply-chain

skills budgets. The platform therefore delivers not only homes, but economic

resilience, and consistent evidence requirements. The

opportunity. The report calls for:

report positions the Shared Capacity Platform as a direct response, providing the enabling infrastructure

1. Government endorsement across MHCLG, Homes England, DBT, DESNZ and MOD

needed to deliver warm, safe, affordable homes

2. Funding to build the platform, map capacity, support early adopters and run a 12

at scale. For New Towns, the platform becomes a

month pilot

national testbed. The report recommends a three-

3. Integration into New Towns delivery

site pilot cluster – Thamesmead, Brabazon and the

4. A cross-government funding model

West Cambridge Innovation Arc – to stress-test

5. A 12 month independent evaluation.

the platform across diverse typologies, planning environments and supply chains. These pilots will

This is framed as a low-cost, high-impact intervention compared to traditional

demonstrate FHS compliance, SME engagement and

capital programmes. The report concludes with a clear message: the UK already has the

reskilling outcomes.

factories, skills and technology to deliver the homes the country needs. What it lacks

MMC factories also offer structured, engineeringaligned roles ideal for Armed Forces leavers,

is co-ordination. The Shared Capacity Platform provides that missing link – turning downtime into delivery, and delivery into opportunity. 

3

WHAT GOVERNMENT GETS: CLEAR, MEASURABLE OUTCOMES The report outlines a compelling value proposition for government: Housing • Faster delivery • Higher quality • Lower cost • FHS-compliant homes.

Industry • Guaranteed pipeline • Higher factory utilisation • Fewer insolvencies • Stronger domestic supply chain.

Economy • Regional jobs • Veteran reskilling • Productivity gains.

• Government Programmes • New Towns delivered at pace • Accelerated Affordable Homes Programme • Progress toward net zero goals.

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Image 3 ‘Unlocking MMC Capacity: Delivering Future Homes’ offers a bold vision for offsite development

If you would like to get involved with the platform development or require further information email: info@buildoffsite.com

Issue 53 July/August 2026

29

ADVERTORIAL SES MANUFACTURING

1

2

Hidden in Plain Sight Paul Cooper, SES Manufacturing’s Managing Director, shares his views on the future of offsite manufacturing as the business continues to expand its mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) capacity.

AS CONSTRUCTION moves towards smarter, more

engineering, manufacturing and installation; wider

efficient ways of working, SES Manufacturing is

adoption of Design for Manufacture and Assembly

helping redefine how building services are delivered.

(DfMA) and platform-based products; AI-assisted

Through prefabrication, modularisation and digital

design automation; deeper industrialisation through

construction, it designs and manufactures high-

data-driven planning and selective automation

quality MEP solutions that bring greater precision,

and sustainability as a defining differentiator, with

consistency and programme certainty to projects

carbon-transparent MEP systems becoming essential.

across the UK. From its 6,000sq ft Coventry facility,

Together, these shifts represent a fundamental

supported by a growing network of agile, digitally

change in how the industry designs, manufactures and

enabled factories including its new Bloxwich site, SES

delivers building services. For manufacturers ready

Manufacturing combines manufacturing expertise

to invest in digital capability, product innovation and

with national scale and flexibility.

operational excellence, the opportunity is significant.

I am delighted to have joined SES Manufacturing at

Our ambition at SES Manufacturing is to be at

such a pivotal moment for the business and the wider

the forefront of that transformation. By investing

construction industry. The team has already built a

in our people, products, digital capabilities and

strong reputation, and I am excited to build on those

manufacturing operations, we are creating scalable,

foundations as we enter the next phase of growth.

high-quality offsite solutions that give customers

After more than 30 years leading manufacturing

3

Images 1-2: SES Manufacturing’s growing network of facilities, as seen at Bloxwich and Coventry, gives greater capacity for prefabrication, modularisation and digital construction of MEP solutions Image 3: Paul Cooper, Managing Director, SES Manufacturing

greater certainty, sustainability and safety. The next

operations, industrialisation programmes and business

decade promises to be one of the most exciting

transformation across engineered sectors, one thing

periods our sector has seen, and we look forward to

is clear – the future belongs to organisations that

shaping it with customers, consultants, architects,

combine engineering excellence with industrialised

contractors and supply chain partners. At SES

delivery. Construction is approaching the same

Manufacturing, we are open for business and excited

inflection point. Skilled labour shortages, productivity

about what comes next. 

Find out more at: www.ses-ltd.co.uk

pressures, sustainability targets and cost inflation are forcing the industry to rethink traditional models, making offsite manufacturing a strategic capability for safer, more predictable and efficient projects.

I believe the next generation of offsite MEP solutions will be shaped by five developments: a

You may know SES for the specialist engineering solutions it delivers on-site. What you might not know is the work taking place behind the scenes through its offsite manufacturing division, SES Manufacturing. “We are the capability that builds UK buildings – hidden in plain sight.”

true design-to-install digital thread connecting BIM,

30

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www.toolfast.ie Your Single Supplier for: High Performance Membranes VCLs & Tapes Specialist Structural Bolts Fasteners & Fixings Sealants & Ancillary Products

Backed by 15 years of industry experience, ToolFast supports your success with access to 3,000+ readily available products. Our extensive stock and rapid delivery help keep your offsite operations running without disruption – and our support doesn’t stop at the door.

CONTACT US Jim Cashin | Sales Manager +353 (86) 021 3881 jim@toolfast.ie Unit 18, Crag Terrace, Clondalkin Industrial Estate, Dublin

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31

FEATURE PRECAST CONCRETE

Precast Concrete and the New Shape of Student Living 1

With demand for purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) continuing to grow across the UK, universities, developers and contractors face increasing pressure to deliver schemes that can be built quickly, operate efficiently and provide a positive student experience from day one.

PRECAST CONCRETE offers a compelling solution. Combining

making it one of the largest student accommodation developments

factory-controlled manufacturing with rapid on-site assembly,

currently underway in the UK. Construction will be completed in

it delivers the certainty, consistency and long-term performance

two phases, opening in 2029 and 2030.

that modern student accommodation requires, while supporting ambitious goals around sustainability, wellbeing and placemaking..

The project reflects a wider shift in student accommodation from simply providing beds to creating places where students can live, study and connect. Designed by Cartwright Pickard and built using

Delivering at speed, creating better places

precast concrete manufactured offsite, the development combines

Student accommodation is governed by

cluster flats, studios, postgraduate rooms

immovable deadlines. Universities have

and accessible accommodation, with 5% of

one opportunity each year to welcome

rooms designed for accessibility.

Of the 1,941 rooms allocated to

students at the start of term, and delays can carry significant financial and operational consequences. This makes programme certainty one of precast concrete’s strongest advantages. Manufacturing structural elements in controlled factory environments reduces on-site labour requirements and limits exposure to weather disruption, labour

Repetitive bedroom layouts and regular structural grids allow designers to standardise components, improve factory efficiency and reduce waste.

shortages and constrained urban sites.

A major example is the £286million redevelopment of Cambridge

Manchester Metropolitan University, 413 will be offered at a 15% discount, demonstrating how large PBSA schemes can contribute to widening participation as well as increasing supply. Landscaped courtyards, rooftop wellness spaces, community facilities and improved pedestrian and cycle connections further support the creation

of a more inclusive student neighbourhood. The development also

Halls for Manchester Metropolitan University. Delivered through a

targets BREEAM Excellent certification and incorporates air-

joint venture between the university and Unite Students, the scheme

source heat pumps, photovoltaic panels, heat-recovery ventilation

will provide 2,302 student beds in towers rising to 24 and 30 storeys,

and intelligent building management systems, highlighting how

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FEATURE PRECAST CONCRETE

precast construction can support both sustainability objectives and long-term urban value.

Performance beyond construction While speed is a major driver, the benefits of precast concrete extend well beyond construction programmes. Concrete’s thermal mass helps regulate internal temperatures by absorbing and releasing heat gradually, reducing overheating risk and lowering demands on building services. Combined with durability and low maintenance requirements, this supports strong whole-life performance and lower operational costs.

Acoustic performance is another significant advantage. The mass of concrete provides effective sound insulation between bedrooms, study areas and communal spaces, helping to create quieter and more comfortable living environments. Concrete’s non-combustible nature and ability to provide robust compartmentation also support modern residential

2

fire safety requirements, while factory production enables tighter tolerances, greater consistency and fewer defects.

technology, demonstrate how innovation is expanding

These benefits have already been demonstrated

the possibilities for offsite concrete construction. The

on major student accommodation projects across the

853-bed scheme achieved Passivhaus certification,

UK, including the University of York’s Campus East

highlighting the growing convergence between

Gateway development, which used precast systems

factory-based manufacture, low-carbon materials and

to deliver accommodation rapidly while meeting

ultra-low-energy design.

demanding operational performance standards.

Images 1-2: York University student accommodation.

Courtesy FP McCann

Although not a conventional precast project, urbanest Battersea points to the direction of travel

Why student accommodation and precast are a natural fit

for the wider concrete sector. Future student

Purpose-built student accommodation is particularly

established advantages of precast – speed, durability,

well suited to industrialised construction methods.

fire performance and acoustic quality – with emerging

Repetitive bedroom layouts and regular structural

innovations in low-carbon materials, digital design

grids allow designers to standardise components,

and DfMA.

accommodation projects are likely to combine the

Projects such as Cambridge Halls demonstrate

improve factory efficiency and reduce waste.

As demand for student housing grows and project

how precast concrete can combine construction

teams seek greater certainty around programme, cost

certainty with long-term operational performance

and quality, the advantages of precast construction

while helping to create better places for students to

are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. At

live. As universities and developers continue to seek

the same time, the wider offsite concrete sector

faster, safer and more sustainable ways of building,

continues to evolve. Developments such as urbanest

precast concrete is set to play an increasingly

Battersea in London, which used Mace’s Low Carbon

important role in shaping the next generation of

Cassette system with Cemfree cement-free concrete

student accommodation. 

WHY PRECAST CONCRETE WORKS SO WELL FOR STUDENT ACCOMMODATION • • •

Repetitive layouts lend themselves naturally to DfMA and factory production Faster assembly helps teams meet immovable academic deadlines Concrete’s mass provides strong acoustic separation between rooms

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• •

Its non-combustible nature supports fire safety and compartmentation Durability and low maintenance make it attractive over the long term.

Find out more at: www.mpaprecast.org

Issue 53 July/August 2026

33

07.10.26

NCC, Birmingham

The STRUCTURAL TIMBER CONFERENCE will return in 2026 following the success of the 2025 event, once again taking place alongside the STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS to create a full day dedicated to celebrating innovation, best practice and excellence across the industry.

Book your tickets using the early bird discount code* - STC20

WWW.STRUCTURALTIMBERCONFERENCE.CO.UK

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Darren Richards Cogent Consulting

Paul King Built by Nature

Mike Tonkin Tonkin Liu

Robin Nicholson Buckland Timber

Paul Inch Strata Consulting

Matt Caldwell Buro Happold

r ke me ! ea m ed Sp gra nc o u pr nno a

The conference will bring together key figures from across the sector for a dynamic programme of content, including expert presentations, engaging panel debates featuring leading housebuilders, and a series of insightful case studies showcasing the latest projects and advancements in structural timber.

Kirsten Haggart Waugh Thistleton

Adrian Campbell ChangeBuilding

Melissa Cicin-Sain Webb Yates

Sam Gills

Charlie Butterwick Architecture Unknown

Andy Heyne Heyne Tillett Steel

James Curtis Morgan Sindall Construction

Lien Geens MCW Architects

Conor O’Neill Smith & Wallwork

James Brentnall B&K Hybrid Solutions

Joshua Lockey Mint Construction

Andrew Orriss Structural Timber Association

Hannah Dixon Progress in Practice

Sam Bailey Bailey Projects

Paul Bilbie Bellway Homes

Matthew Bass Vistry

James Turner Rob Wheaton Mikhail Riches Stride Treglown www.offsitemagazine.co.uk www.linkedin.com/company/exploreoffsite

Bennetts Associates/ Manchester Metropolitan Uni

Oliver Novakovic Barratt Redrow Issue 51 February 2026

35

FEATURE INDUSTRIALISED CONSTRUCTION

1

Data-Driven Productivity Gains Turning live construction data into practical productivity gains was at the core of the winner of both the Collaborative Project of the Year and Winner of Winners award, at the inaugural Industrialised Construction Awards earlier this year.

At the heart of the project is the Cambridge Framework for Construction Performance and Productivity, developed to help organisations consistently measure productivity and turn operational data into practical insights. Applied at Timber Square, the framework enabled project partners to analyse delivery across key packages, including the structural frame, cladding, and CAT

Images 1-2: Timber Square, Southwark, comprises of an extended 1950s printworks and a new 15-storey building. The Print and Ink buildings offer 380,000sq ft of Grade A office space centred around a new public square.

Courtesy PEFC UK/ Richard Murgatroyd Photography

THE CAMBRIDGE Laing O’Rourke Centre for

A fit-out. This created a shared evidence base that

Construction Engineering and Technology, in

helped teams identify constraints, refine strategies,

collaboration with Mace and Landsec picked up the

and replicate high-performing practices.

Awards for the work in ‘Improving Productivity in

The Centre’s work is helping industry partners

Industrialised Construction Through Data-Driven

understand performance in greater detail, benchmark

Collaboration’. The winning submission focused on

productivity more effectively and use evidence

Timber Square in central London – using a hybrid steel

from live projects to drive improvement. In this way,

and cross laminated timber (CLT) structural frame –

the research is contributing not only to academic

where the University of Cambridge, Landsec, Mace

understanding of industrialised construction, but

Construct and multiple Tier 2 contractors used shared

also to better delivery in practice. It also reflects

project data to examine productivity on a live scheme.

the influence of Professor Cam Middleton, whose leadership was instrumental in shaping this work and

Practical insights into productivity

whose legacy continues through the Centre’s research

The project reflects a distinctive strength of the

and its impact on industry.

Centre’s work: combining academic research with

36

direct application on live construction projects. By

Shared data and clearer decisions

bringing together project data, industry expertise

The collaboration was significant because the

and a shared performance review, the research has

data being shared is often kept inside individual

shown how collaboration across the supply chain can

organisations. Tier 2 partners including William

improve productivity, strengthen decision-making

Hare, Sipral, SES, TClarke, Modular Interior and Otis

and support more consistent delivery.

contributed labour and productivity information,

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FEATURE INDUSTRIALISED CONSTRUCTION

2 with the University of Cambridge acting as an independent data integrator.

Rather than relying on anecdotal reporting, the team worked from a shared evidence base. Programme schedules, installation records, crane utilisation, labour access records, CCTV images and delivery tracking were linked through common identifiers, allowing activity to be reviewed across floors, zones and work packages. That information was translated into dashboards, flowline analysis and regular performance reviews. The aim was not simply to record what had happened, but to understand why productivity varied and where interventions could improve flow, sequencing, logistics and resource allocation.

For the hybrid steel and CLT superstructure, the average structural frame production rate

3

reached approximately 45sq m per day across the two buildings. Labour productivity also exceeded comparable benchmarks, reaching around 0.53sq m

Productivity Twin for Industrialised Construction’ was

per worker on the Ink building and 0.44sq m per

shortlisted for the Digital Innovation in Industrialised

worker-hour on the Print building. Peak outputs

Construction award. That project demonstrated

passed 70sq m per day in multiple locations

how digital models, programme data, CCTV, labour

when logistics, sequencing and resources aligned.

records and site information can be integrated into a

Beyond the figures, the value was in the method.

single platform to provide near-real-time insight into

Continuous monitoring of blockers and workflow

construction productivity and performance.

disruption gave construction managers better

Together, these achievements underline the Centre’s

information to act on, while crane utilisation data

leadership in industrialised construction research and

helped direct critical lifting resources where they

show how Cambridge research is helping the sector

had the greatest impact.

measure productivity more effectively, collaborate more

Image 3: L-R: Keith Waller, High Value Manufacturing Catapult, Dr Ashan Asmone, Research Associate, Dr Danny Murguia, Assistant Research Professor, Az Jasat, Director for Industrialised Construction Strategy, Autodesk

openly across project teams and use digital innovation

Measurable gains

to support better decisions on live projects. 

This success also sits within a wider programme of research excellence at the Centre. Alongside the winning collaboration project, the Centre’s ‘Cambridge Digital

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

37

FEATURE INDUSTRIALISED CONSTRUCTION

Why Micro-Factories and Why Now? Mollie Claypool, Co-founder and CEO of AUAR, sets out the case for deployable micro-factories backed by construction-specific Physical AI that can provide high-quality, sustainable timber homes quickly and confidently.

1

HOUSING IS BUILT at an enormous scale,

shift. The limiting factor is not intent – it is risk. For

continuously. In the United States alone, roughly one

housing production to scale and respond to demand,

to one and a half million residential units are under

capacity must adapt to industry realities rather than

construction at any given time (U.S. Census Bureau,

forcing the industry to adapt.

Monthly New Residential Construction, December

2

2025). Across the UK and EU combined, official data

The on-site micro-factory model

suggests the figure is roughly two million. This is a live

On-site micro-factories change the equation by

system under strain.

distributing manufacturing capability to building

Demand for housing continues to rise as Images 1, 3: AUAR deliver microfactories to be set up onsite within a few hours and can produce readyto-install panel packs for reliable, repeatable results. Courtesy AUAR Image 2 Mollie Claypool, Co-founder and CEO, AUAR

AUAR’s micro-factory is a deployable, robotic

structurally unchanged for decades: design, supply

production unit that fits inside a standard 40-foot

chains, manufacturing and site execution still operate

shipping container. It can be transported to site,

in silos, with limited continuity from one build to the

deployed in half a day, and begin producing timber

next. Timelines stretch, costs escalate and quality

frame wall panels, floor cassettes, and simple roof

varies. What the sector lacks is a delivery system that

elements using standard timber. It is a turnkey

reliably translates high-performance design into built

system: plug in three-phase power or a diesel

reality at scale, under real-world constraints, without

generator, and it is ready to run.

forcing builders to reorganise their operations.

The implications are practical. Raw materials are delivered to the point of production, reducing long-

The problem with traditional factories

distance transport and the coordination burden of

Significant investment has flowed into offsite

remote factory supply. The micro-factory produces

manufacturing. Large, centralised factories promise

what the project needs, where it needs it, when it

industrialised housing production, but many models

needs it. For a typical house, that can mean the core

demand heavy upfront capital, fixed infrastructure

and shell produced in under eight hours.

and long-term volume certainty. They serve a narrow

38

sites, or close to the projects they serve.

labour availability declines. Delivery has remained

Critically, the micro-factory is charged on usage, not

segment of the market – operators who can guarantee

purchased. Partners access manufacturing capacity

enough throughput to justify the investment.

only when they need it and pay per square metre of

Most homebuilders work with variable pipelines,

panel produced. When production pauses, costs stop.

site-specific constraints and evolving programmes.

There is no capital expenditure, no idle machinery and

They cannot commit to the volumes that make a fixed

no long-term volume commitment. The financial risk

factory viable, and they cannot afford idle machinery

that makes traditional factory automation inaccessible

on their balance sheets when market conditions

to most builders does not apply.

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FEATURE INDUSTRIALISED CONSTRUCTION

3

Construction needs domain-specific Physical AI

Why AUAR’s operating model matters

The gap between architectural design and factory-ready

capacity should meet builders and projects where they are. The technology is designed to

manufacturing files has historically required large teams,

integrate into existing delivery models rather than replace them. Partners continue using

manual redrawing, and weeks of coordination. AUAR’s

familiar materials, suppliers, and workflows. Automation is introduced incrementally,

MasterBuilder Physical AI software closes that gap.

sized to real building programmes, and scaled as confidence and demand grow.

MasterBuilder translates a building design into a

AUAR was founded on a premise tested over more than a decade: manufacturing

For homebuilders, this means turning every site into a factory – deploying

production-ready package in under a day: drawings,

manufacturing capacity directly where homes are being built, with no upfront

material take-offs and robotic manufacturing files.

investment and no operational overhaul. For manufacturers and component

It automates design-for-manufacture logic, adapts

suppliers, it means high-mix, high-flex production at zero capital expenditure –

models to required structural sizing in line with

micro-factories can operate within existing facilities or be deployed to customer

building codes, and outputs IFC for delivery teams.

sites, switching between products and projects. In AUAR’s view, the micro-factory

Once a typology is set up, it can be reused across

model trades fixed-line efficiencies for far greater adaptability and can improve

projects with changes made near-instantaneously.

throughput where the constraint is variability, not raw cycle time.

MasterBuilder uses vision and sensors to get live

Behind every deployment is AUAR’s accumulated operational knowledge built

feedback and translate manufacturing intent into

across production environments in the US, Canada, UK and EU. Each project

reliable decisions on real timber, where materials are

contributes data and learning that is formalised into repeatable processes,

not uniform. Timber arrives with variability in moisture,

improving outcomes for partners over time. The housing industry needs

bow, twist, knots, and tolerances. AUAR’s control layer

production systems that are as distributed, adaptable, and continuous as the

detects and compensates in-line. It adjusts clamping,

demand they serve. Micro-factories are one credible route to distributed capacity at

toolpaths, and cut strategies. It flags out-of-spec inputs

scale. AUAR’s bet is that deployment plus operating model – not just hardware – is

and learns from outcomes across deployments. The

what makes it stick. 

result is repeatable production from imperfect materials, with remote diagnostics and improvements propagated to every unit. This is Physical AI for homebuilding.

To unlock adoption, AUAR field operators embed with partners to launch each micro-factory and run production.

They are accountable for throughput, quality, and uptime.

This is not just support. It is the operating model for bringing on-site automation to homebuilding. It removes execution risk, shortens time to first output, and locks in output

You can keep up to speed with a wide range of industrialised construction developments at: www.industrialisedconstruction.co.uk and inside the digital Industrialised Construction Journal

quality while partners build internal capability to scale.

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Find out more at: www.auar.io

39

INTRODUCING

VERSAFLOOR®HD

Where Strength Meets Assurance A structurally graded cement-bonded particle board that provides a solid feel and has been classified as limited combustibility FIRE CLASSIFIED

MOISTURE TOLERANT

ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE

Euroform VERSAFLOOR® HD • • • • • •

Dense board for acoustic performance High mass provides solid feel compared to traditional wood based flooring board Limited combustibility EuroClass A2fl-s1 – EN 13501-1 Lower risk of combustion compared to wood-based flooring Moisture tolerant 1200x600mm T&G for quick installation

Talk to us

01925 860999

sales@euroform.co.uk www.euroform.co.uk

Register for more details

40

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ADVERTORIAL EUROFORM

Euroform’s Latest Structural Floor Panel – Solid Feel with Limited Combustibility Euroform’s Versafloor® wood-based flooring panels have been the choice of modular builders for over 20 years. The new Versafloor® HD adds to the range, providing an even more solid feel option, which has been assessed as of limited combustibility.

A2fl-s1 Reaction to Fire Classification Particularly suited to offsite construction, Versafloor® HD is a structurally graded cement bonded particle board with an A2fl-s1 Reaction to Fire classification according to BS EN 13501-1, one of few flooring boards on the market to combine the two attributes. “For offsite manufacturers, Versafloor® HD offers the feel of a traditional solid floor without the weight,” says Euroform’s Technical Director John Taylor.

“Importantly, its limited combustibility provides the benefit of reduced risk of combustion compared to traditional wood-based flooring boards.”

1

Graded for structural use Versafloor® HD is graded for structural use in floors and decking according to BS EN 13986. Due to its higher

Images 1-3: Euroform’s Versafloor® HD flooring panels are a proven product across a range of offsite sectors

density (1560 kg/m³ +/- 10%) compared with wooden boards such as P5 particle board, it has a more solid feel, plus the high density helps with noise control within floor/ceiling systems. Highly moisture tolerant, Versafloor® HD will not rot or degrade in the presence of moisture. It also provides higher thermal conductivity

2

and heat capacity compared with traditional wood flooring boards, so is a good choice where thermal insulation and underfloor heating is required.

Speed and ease of installation For speed and ease of installation, Versafloor® HD is supplied with tongue and groove edges to four sides. It is available from stock in standard dimensions 1200 x 600 x 18mm or 22mm (laid size) and can be supplied as a pre-cut

3

kit of parts to suit off-site manufacturing requirements for minimal cutting and waste. Also effective as a nonstructural overlay board, Verasfloor® HD can be used for

Easyboard® and Versaroc® MPA1 along with limited

refurbishment and acoustic floor upgrades.

combustibility A2 Versapanel® sheathing boards and

Manufacturers of modular buildings for many sectors, including education, healthcare, prisons and

Weatherclad® cladding in a wide range of finishes.

Euroform has been developing, fabricating and

residential schemes, are already specifying Versafloor®

supplying materials for the construction industry

HD attracted by the combination of its structural

since 1995, specialising in ensuring fire and thermal

strength and limited combustibility, reports Euroform.

compliance across its product range. It is part of the

Versafloor® HD is one of several products Euroform

Performance Technology Group, a group of companies

supplies to offsite manufacturers, which include non-

supporting the construction industry to meet

combustible exterior grade Versarend® render board,

acoustic, fire, thermal and vibration challenges. 

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

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41

ADVERTORIAL SUPERGLASS

The Vital Role of Insulation in MMC 1

With Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) playing an increasingly important role in UK housing delivery, and influencing how new homes are designed and constructed, Superglass explore why insulation has become a key component of MMC systems.

WITH CONTINUED PRESSURE to increase housing supply,

•

Efficient, comfortable buildings: combined with controlled

the housebuilding sector is evolving, with innovative MMC

ventilation strategies, insulation supports overall building

construction methods coming to the fore. And it’s easy to see why,

efficiency and can enhance acoustic comfort by reducing sound

these approaches can offer benefits such as shorter construction

transmission between spaces.

programmes, improved quality control through factory-based manufacturing, and reduced exposure to weather during the build

How insulation and offsite construction work together

process. While the old adage says you can have quality, speed

In offsite construction – including 3D volumetric and panelised

and cost, MMC systems can help balance these factors when

systems – insulation is integrated into the building fabric during

appropriately designed, specified and installed, and when suitable

manufacture. This allows performance-critical elements to be

materials are used.

installed in a controlled environment, supporting consistency and improving the reliability of as-built performance.

Insulation in MMC MMC is typically associated with a ‘fabric-first’ approach, where

•

Integration with modern heating systems: by helping to deliver

the performance of the building envelope is prioritised. Within this

low U-values when correctly specified, insulation can support the

approach, insulation plays a key role in helping prefabricated and

use of heating systems such as heat pumps.

lightweight construction systems achieve required levels of thermal

•

to maximise usable internal floor area.

energy efficiency targets, and can assist in reducing the risk of a performance gap when correctly specified and installed. Insulation

•

Acoustic and fire performance: when installed as part of a tested system, insulation can support acoustic separation and

can also contribute to acoustic performance and fire resistance when

contribute to fire resistance in line with relevant standards.

used as part of a tested and compliant system.

In MMC, insulation can support several important outcomes:

Space efficiency: thermally efficient insulation can support compliant performance with slimmer wall constructions, helping

performance. It contributes to the control of heat loss, supports

•

Thermal continuity and airtightness: offsite assembly allows for insulation layers to be integrated within the building envelope

•

Consistent energy performance: by helping control heat

during manufacture, helping to reduce the risk of gaps that can contribute to heat loss and air-leakage.

loss within the building envelope, insulation supports more predictable thermal outcomes when installed correctly.

•

•

Helping to Reduce the Performance Gap: factory-based

Quality control: incorporating insulation in a factory-controlled

installation allows insulation to be installed in line with design

environment can support better standardisation, less waste and

intent, supporting more consistent as-built performance

reduced gaps around structural elements.

compared with site-based installation alone.

42

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ADVERTORIAL SUPERGLASS

2

How Superglass insulation caters for MMC Superglass glass mineral wool insulation is used across MMC and offsite building systems. Designed with factory-based construction in mind, it enables insulation to be incorporated within prefabricated elements as part of a controlled manufacturing process. Its physical properties and ease of installation make it well suited to factory-based processes, helping manufacturers integrate insulation efficiently within prefabricated elements.

Manufactured using up to 84% recycled glass, the

Superglass insulation products

range includes rolls, slabs and batts designed for use

are deemed non-combustible, achieving

across a variety of construction types. Superglass

Euroclass A1 when tested to EN 13501-1:2018

insulation is used in applications including:

Reaction to Fire. As Ben Connelly, Technical Manager at Superglass, explains: “We believe

•

Modular units

fire safety should be in-built into every product

•

Non-structural pods

across the construction supply chain.”

•

Panellised systems

•

Timber frame construction

Technical support

•

Steel frame construction

For MMC manufacturers and specifiers,

•

Floor cassettes.

Superglass offers full technical support

3

Images 1-3: Superglass insulation is manufactured to support a wide range of MMC and offsite systems

through its Technical Team, providing U-value

Supporting efficient installation

calculations and Psi-value calculations, to assist

With versatility and customisation being integral

with meeting project requirements. The team

for constructing with offsite materials, Superglass

can also advise on product selection, including

insulation is manufactured to be fit for purpose

bespoke solutions where

within these systems, allowing it to be cut and

project-specific requirements demand a tailored

installed to suit a wide range of applications and

approach. The Superglass Technical Team can be

construction details. Fire performance is an important

contacted by calling 0808 1645 134 or email at

consideration in MMC and offsite construction.

technical.stirling@etexgroup.com 

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

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43

FEATURE LIGHT STEEL FRAME

The CostEffective Route to Net Zero Net zero is no longer an aspiration for the construction industry – it is now a commercial, regulatory and environmental imperative – so be prepared. Ben Towe, Chair of the Light Steel Frame Association (LSFA) describes how.

1

WITH THE UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard

That means considering the environmental impact of

entering its early adoption phase and the Future

a building from material extraction and manufacture

Homes Standard on the horizon, the construction

through construction, occupation, adaptation and

industry must move beyond ambition and embrace

ultimately – deconstruction. This is where light steel

practical solutions that can deliver measurable carbon

frame comes into its own.

Steel is one of the world’s most recyclable materials

reductions at scale.

The challenge is significant. We must reduce

and, unlike many alternatives, it can be reused or

embodied carbon, improve operational performance,

recycled indefinitely without any loss of structural

extend building lifespans and embrace circular

performance. Today’s light steel frame systems

construction principles – all while delivering safe,

already contain between 60-90% recycled steel, while

high-quality buildings that remain commercially

the steel industry continues to make rapid progress

viable. The good news is that one solution already

towards low-carbon and ultimately near-zero-carbon

exists. Light steel frame construction is uniquely

steel production through Electric Arc Furnace (EAF)

positioned to help the industry meet these challenges

technology and renewable energy. A key milestone

without compromising on safety, performance or cost.

in this journey is the new electric arc furnace project

Image 1: First school in Wales to use Frameclad’s ECOLSF – 100% recycled steel made in Electric Arc Furnaces Image 2: EPD’s provide independently verified evidence of a light steel systems environmental performance Image 3: Net zero is no longer a distant ambition but an imminent requirement

at Port Talbot, led by Tata Steel UK. Backed by an

Whole-life carbon

investment of around £1.25billion, including UK

For too long, the net zero conversation has focused

Government support, it is expected to reduce on-site

almost exclusively on operational energy. While this

CO₂ emissions by up to 90% and play a central role

remains important, we now understand that whole-life

in the UK’s transition to ‘green steel’ with production

carbon must be at the centre of every design decision.

targeted to begin around 2027.

44

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FEATURE LIGHT STEEL FRAME

repurposed, while steel itself can be recycled repeatedly without degradation.

This adaptability also extends the useful life of buildings. Light steel structures are ideally suited to extensions, change of use and internal reconfiguration, helping clients avoid the considerable financial and environmental costs associated with demolition and rebuilding. According to Steel Construction Institute guidance, light steel systems can achieve design lives of up to 250 years when used within an appropriate warm frame environment.

2

Sustainability should never compromise safety Net zero should never come at the expense of safety. As building regulations continue

and occupancy. The real opportunity lies in

to evolve, non-combustible construction

this creates an exceptionally efficient

adopting a circular approach to the built

materials are playing an increasingly

structural solution. Light steel frame uses

environment.

important role. Light steel frame offers

When combined with intelligent design,

exceptional dimensional stability, durability

significantly less material than traditional concrete or masonry construction

Material banks

and fire performance, delivering reassurance

while delivering the required structural

Rather than viewing buildings as disposable

for developers, insurers, regulators and,

performance. Its lightweight nature

assets, we should begin treating them as

most importantly – building occupants.

also reduces foundation requirements,

material banks. Light steel frame naturally

Transparency will also be critical as

cutting excavation, concrete use, transport

supports this philosophy. Standardised

sustainability expectations continue to rise.

emissions and programme time. These

components, predictable structural

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs)

are not marginal gains – they represent

performance and durable materials allow

are already providing independently verified

meaningful carbon and cost savings across

buildings to be designed for adaptation,

lifecycle data that allows designers and clients

every project.

disassembly and future reuse. Panels, studs

to make informed specification decisions.

Looking ahead, Digital Product Passports

and modules can often be recovered and

Operational performance

will further strengthen material traceability, by supporting the golden thread of building

Equally important is how buildings perform throughout their operational life.

information, while unlocking future

Precision-engineered light steel systems are

opportunities for reuse and circular material

manufactured to exact tolerances, enabling

markets. As we move towards a lower-

highly airtight building envelopes with

carbon future, we should embrace solutions

minimal thermal bridging. This improves

that are proven, commercially realistic and

energy efficiency, supports compliance with

capable of delivering lasting environmental

increasingly demanding building standards

benefits. By considering structural solutions

and integrates seamlessly with technologies

at the outset of a project, rather than later in

such as heat pumps, mechanical ventilation

the design process, the industry can unlock

with heat recovery (MVHR) and solar PV

significant carbon, programme and cost

systems. However, achieving net zero

3

requires us to think beyond construction

efficiencies while future-proofing buildings for generations to come. 

LIGHT STEEL FRAME ASSOCIATION The LSFA is committed to advancing the adoption of light steel technology, helping the industry deliver safer, more sustainable buildings designed to stand the test of time. Our aim is to equip construction professionals with the knowledge to specify light steel frame systems

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as a credible net zero solution – demonstrating that high-performance, future-ready buildings can be delivered without a cost premium. Early collaboration with the right expertise can transform project outcomes, unlocking a more sustainable, safe and cost-effective pathway to net zero.

Issue 53 July/August 2026

Take the first step and download the Light Steel Frame Association’s ‘Cost-Effective Route to Net Zero guide’: www.lsf-association.co.uk/document-library

45

ADVERTORIAL WELSER PROFILE

Welser Advanced Roll Forming – Enhancing 3D Volumetric Modular Design Welser Profile supplies custom roll formed steel profiles to a huge range of industries, all of which demand cost efficient, tightly toleranced and highly repeatable steel profiles to lower their own production costs.

1 HAVING SPENT many years expanding the boundaries of what

Welser Profile is a 362-year-old family-lead company, a pioneer in

is possible, Welser uses its advanced roll-forming technology to

the development of bespoke cold roll formed profiles across a range

add value to its customers, offering complex profiles that are often

of materials, markets and applications. With 2500 employees across

thought impossible to produce. Welser is happy to work with its

production plants in Austria, Germany and the USA, Welser Profile

customers to optimise their ideas for maximum cost efficiency. The

has a loyal global customer base. The images on this page show

opening of design freedom away from basic roll formed shapes helps

examples of Welser produced profiles from different industries, to

module designers innovate, differentiate and reduce costs.

highlight a little of what advanced roll forming can offer. 

2

Whilst the laws of physics cannot be ignored, advanced roll forming can seem to defy them. For example, tight process control can eliminate the expected end splay of a cut profile, so that the profiles fit more cleanly into the module – no more hammering the

Find out more at: www.welser.com/en/product-solutions/construction/ modular-buildings or contact Nick Jeal, Welser Profile UK, email: n.jeal@welser.com or phone: +44 7515 063209.

end of a profile to make the floor sit flat properly.

Steel profiles, cold rolled from higher strength steels (up to 1700MPa yield anyone?) and up to 8mm thick can change how module designers size their frames. A smaller cross-section can now deliver the required stiffness and strength, freeing up valuable space inside the module. This can also help increase module ‘stackability’.

Improved steel grades can also potentially be used to thin profiles where weight and space may be an issue.

Overall, cold roll forming allows more accurate profiles than hot rolling, as well as ensuring mechanical properties are maintained.

Highly accurate cutting across a large end face, pre-stressing of the beams, super accurate punching and length control are all required

3

to simplify the life of a 3D volumetric module builder.

Further downstream processing of profiles can add another dimension to module build speed, with additions like profile bending, laser worked end forms and even welding one profile to another along their lengths all working to create a plug and play part to

Images 1-3: Welser uses its advanced roll-forming technology to add value to its customers, offering complex profiles that are often thought impossible to produce

reduce build time and complexity.

46

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Advanced Roll Forming Enhancing 3D Volumetric Module Design Don’t be restricted by simple 4 mm thick steel profiles. For over 30 years Welser has been supporting the European modular building market with ever more advanced roll forming techniques.

Why would you use Welser?

X Up to 8 mm thick steel profiles – stronger, stiffer modules with more internal space X Complex shapes – more design freedom, more functionality from one component X Tighter tolerances – more accurate, more consistent, faster module build and no end splay to manage.

X Additional downstream processing so you receive “plug & play” parts for faster build.

Contact:

Scan the QR code to find out more:

Nick Jeal • Welser Profile UK 07515 063209 • n.jeal@welser.com

www.welser.com

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

47

FEATURE LIGHT STEEL FRAME

Fire Test First Frameclad recently achieved the UK’s first BS EN 1366-3 floor penetration fire test in light steel frame (LSF) construction. Frameclad’s Joint Managing Directors Martin Jamieson and Nik Teagle, explain how the groundbreaking test – covering six penetration types – set a new benchmark for LSF fire performance.

THE UK CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY has undergone a decisive

Applicable test standard

and necessary shift towards safer, more resilient building systems,

The tests were conducted in accordance with BS EN 1366-

particularly in the residential sector. Protecting people, property

3:2021+A1:2024 incorporating corrigendum September 2025 – Fire

and investment are essential business objectives and driven

resistance tests for service installations: Part 3 – Penetration

by post Grenfell legislative reform and the Building Safety Act

seals. This European standard defines the test methods, specimen

2022, regulatory bodies now quite rightly demand demonstrably

preparation, exposure conditions and classification criteria for

higher standards of fire safety performance. In this environment,

penetration seals installed in floors and walls. Classification

rigorous third-party fire testing is not merely best practice – it is a

under this standard is expressed as E (integrity) and I (insulation),

cornerstone of responsible specification.

combined with the achieved duration in minutes – for example EI 90.

UK first for floor penetration fire testing

What is a service penetration?

Carried out at Element Materials Technology, under Warringtonfire

As many will be aware, a service penetration is an opening created

Testing and Certification’s flexible scope of UKAS accreditation, this

in a floor, wall or ceiling to allow essential building services to pass

is understood to be the first test of its kind conducted using light

between compartments. Whilst structurally necessary, unsealed or

steel frame floor construction in the UK. Utilising Quelfire products

inadequately sealed penetrations represent a critical vulnerability

and systems, the light steel frame floor assembly incorporated six

in a building’s passive fire protection (PFP) strategy. Fire and hot

different service penetration types, each sealed using a different

gases can spread rapidly through these openings, undermining

Quelfire passive fire protection system. These included multiple

compartmentation and placing occupants at risk. Correctly sealing

pipework penetrations of varying sizes, as well as cable penetrations,

all service penetrations with tested and certified fire-resistant

each configured with a unique combination of Quelfire fire stopping

systems is a legal and moral obligation for designers, contractors and

products to assess performance across a range of real world scenarios.

building owners, particularly in higher-risk buildings.

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FEATURE LIGHT STEEL FRAME

2

Image 1: Setting a new benchmark for light steel frame fire performance

1

Image 2: Protecting people, property and investment are a legal and moral requirement

Floor build-up and configuration A single floor assembly was constructed and tested, incorporating six discrete circular penetration apertures – each sealed using a different Quelfire passive fire protection system. This approach allowed direct performance comparison across six product types within a single, controlled test environment.

3

The build-up was consistent across all six penetration

Image 3: First floor penetration fire tests conducted in the UK using light steel frame floor construction

locations. Pipe and cable services were supported at intervals from the unexposed face using frames

Quelfire penetration sealing systems can maintain

fabricated from Frameclad C-channels with steel pipe

compartmentation within a light steel frame floor

clamps. Each of the six apertures was then sealed

construction under full fire exposure conditions.

individually using a distinct Quelfire penetration sealing system, enabling a comprehensive, comparative

Trusted partner

assessment of product performance within a single test.

Independent, third-party tests and certifications from fire test centres offer a clear benchmark for

Outstanding results across all six specimens

performance under fire conditions and help our

Despite each of the six penetration sealing systems

technical team ensure that our light steel frame

employing a distinct product and installation

systems specified – particularly for higher-risk

methodology, the fire test results were uniformly

buildings – are fit for purpose. As the construction

exceptional. The structural integrity of each

industry leans into the challenges of fire safety,

specimen was maintained for 98 minutes, with the

Frameclad stands as a trusted partner, delivering high-

test discontinued after a period of 99 minutes –

performance, accredited and innovative solutions that

comfortably exceeding the 90-minute classification

protect people, property and investment. 

threshold. At no point during the test duration were any visible signs of fire penetration or damage observed on the unexposed (upper) face of the floor assembly. The results demonstrate that all six

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To download the full details of the BS EN 1366-3 floor penetration fire tests go to: www.frameclad.com/fire-performance-testing to request a CPD Accredited presentation, email: enquiries@frameclad.com

Issue 53 July/August 2026

49

FEATURE FACTORY TOUR

Inside Polypipe Building Services’ Aylesford Factory Our latest factory visit sought to understand how the business is combining automation, injection moulding investment and prefabrication to improve efficiency, quality and overall project delivery.

1

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FEATURE FACTORY TOUR

2 FACTORY TOURS can be instructive reminders of just how

effectiveness from the investment, taking it to 85% OEE, alongside a

broadly offsite thinking now reaches. Polypipe Building Services’

26% gain in energy efficiency.

manufacturing site in Aylesford, Kent, is not turning out structural

Much of that gain comes down to the Engel machines’ tie-bar-less

frames or volumetric pods. What it produces – pipework, drainage

design, which gives smaller units the flexibility to take on bigger tools.

systems, prefabricated building services – tends not to feature in

Fewer tool changes and less wear on the moulds follow, with a knock-on

architectural renders or feature photography. But it sits squarely

reduction in scrap rates and unplanned downtime.

“For an industry that has performed steadily for decades, a 10%

within the offsite agenda, and what’s happening at the facility reflects

efficiency gain within twelve months is a dramatic improvement,”

how seriously the company is taking its role in that story.

The visit opened with a briefing on the business – its history, current investment programme and future plans. From there,

says Andy Martin, Operations Director at Polypipe Building Services. “This investment and the corresponding performance

the tour moved onto the main

dividend are another demonstration

factory floor, and the scale of what

of our commitment to achieving the

Polypipe Building Services has

highest levels of sustainability and

been putting into Aylesford became

productivity, and to providing our

immediately apparent.

A £7million programme The site operates around the clock, five days a week, and employs around 350 people. It has been

Rather than leaving pipework co-ordination entirely to site teams, the service takes on the design and pre-assembly work in factory conditions, delivering tested systems ready for installation.

the focus of sustained capital

customers with the highest quality, most sustainable and best value products.”

Automation on the floor On the production floor itself, automation is visible across

investment: some £1.5million has gone into automation technology, a

multiple stages. Six-axis and Cartesian robots handle products and

further £3million into injection moulding machinery and £2.5million

reduce the need for manual intervention, with the emphasis less

into extrusion. The headline addition is twelve new Engel machines

on raw output and more on consistency and being able to run lines

– a premium brand in injection moulding circles – installed over the

reliably, respond to volume changes and maintain tolerances across

course of 2024 and 2025, in two sizes (100 and 400 tonnes locking

high-turnover production cycles.

force). Ten are dedicated PVC injection moulding machines – two

Quality control has been upgraded alongside the production

are general-purpose, capable of handling both PVC and HDPE.

capability. Polypipe Building Services has introduced an IV4 AI

The company reports a 10% improvement in overall equipment

camera system for automated visual inspection, checking

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

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FEATURE FACTORY TOUR

3

4

5

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FEATURE FACTORY TOUR

components for dimensional variation, ovality and moulding defects before robotic handling systems take over for packaging. For contractors, this kind of factorybased checking is worth understanding – catching problems before products leave the site is considerably less costly than catching them on a live project.

The automation changes have also shifted how labour is deployed. Where production lines previously operated on a one-operator-per-machine basis, they now typically run at one operator to four machines.

That hasn’t meant headcount reductions so much as redeployment with staff moved into technical and operational roles where judgement and experience are harder to replicate.

From factory floor to project site The second part of the visit moved upstairs to the Polypipe Advantage workshop, where the company’s prefabrication offer takes shape. The Polypipe Advantage Service – covering design, fabrication, testing and delivery for drainage and water supply systems – is the part of the operation most directly relevant to contractors working on complex or constrained projects.

The premise is straightforward enough. Rather than leaving pipework co-ordination entirely to site teams, the service takes on the design and preassembly work in factory conditions, delivering tested systems ready for installation. Polypipe Building Services says the approach is particularly suited to

7

projects where design changes are common, where multiple contractors need to interface on services, or where site constraints make pipework installation

delivery process rather than simply upstream of it.

difficult – tight room layouts, drainage in confined

The two halves of the tour reinforce each other – a

spaces, recurring plumbing faults on programme-

more controlled, consistently produced component

critical packages.

base feeding into a prefabrication service designed to take complexity offsite.

Advantage in action The service has already been used across a range

What’s next for Aylesford?

of project types. At Alperton Bus Garage, Polypipe

The fabrication department is identified as the

Building Services supplied a Stax installation. Trinity

focus of the next phase of development. At present,

Island featured prefabricated risers and manifolds

prefabricated pipe systems are manufactured using

that were delivered through its MecFlow system.

manual processes, and bringing more automation to

Eastman Village made use of a highly customised

that area is where attention is now turning. Aylesford

prefabricated drainage stack, while at Skygardens,

isn’t a facility in transition so much as one that has

a prefabricated drainage and modular plantroom

already changed shape and is deciding what comes

solution is reported to have delivered substantial

next. The investment already in place has moved the

time savings on-site. Between them, the projects give

site away from conventional batch production toward

a sense of how the Advantage service flexes to suit

something more responsive and quality assured.

very different briefs, from straightforward stack

What the Polypipe Advantage offer adds is a clearer

replacement to bespoke, project-specific fabrication.

connection to project outcomes – a sign that building

The Advantage workshop gave the visit a useful

services manufacturers are increasingly thinking in

second dimension. Where the production floor

terms of what contractors need on-site, not just what

showed investment in manufacturing efficiency and

they need to buy. 

Images 1-7: The Polypipe Advantage facility is where the company’s prefabrication offer takes shape and covers design, fabrication, testing and delivery for drainage and water supply systems

quality, the workshop showed how Polypipe Building Services is positioning itself alongside the project

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Find out more at: www.polypipebuildingservices.com

Issue 53 July/August 2026

53

FEATURE PROCUREMENT

Understanding How Frameworks Operate

Frameworks offer an essential route for offsite providers into the public sector marketplace.

This core component of procurement strategy is often misunderstood outside the procurement profession. Louise Hardcastle, Buyer - Buildings at the YPO, offers some much-needed clarity.

MMC IS A RAPIDLY GROWING part of the

and will also be evaluated against scored criteria by an

construction industry, and the public sector is

evaluation team. Successful suppliers are appointed to the

increasingly recognising the advantages it brings to

framework and become eligible for call-off opportunities.

projects of all sizes. These include faster and more

1

Image 1: Louise Hardcastle, Buyer – Buildings, YPO Image 2: Central to offsite delivery is speed and predictability. Courtesy Stelling Properties Images 3-4: Modular construction provides repeatable, precision quality.

Courtesy Integra Buildings

54

Depending on the framework, users may run their

predictable delivery, along with sustainability benefits.

own competitive selection process or award without

A framework is defined under the Procurement Act

competition, previously known as direct award under

2023 as: “a contract between a contracting authority

the Public Contracts Regulations 2015, in line with the

and one or more suppliers that provides for the future

framework rules. The framework owner monitors call-

award of contracts by a contracting authority to the

offs, manages key performance indicators and feedback,

supplier or suppliers.” The contracting authority runs

and carries out ongoing due diligence to ensure

a single competition to establish the framework.

suppliers remain capable of delivering. Recent business

Framework users can then award call-off contracts

failures in the modular sector have reinforced the

more quickly using the framework’s appointed

importance of strong due diligence, ongoing monitoring

suppliers. The framework sets out the scope, pricing

and clear evidence of resilience within the supply base.

structure, terms and conditions, and the rules

Frameworks offer many strategic benefits.

for awarding call-offs. Suppliers appointed to a

The most obvious is speed. Running your own

framework are eligible for call-offs, but the authority

open procedure can take months, including pre-

is not obliged to award any. All call-off contracts must

engagement and tender development. Much of this

comply with the rules of the framework.

work has already been completed when using a framework, meaning a contract can be awarded in

Market insights

weeks. Suppliers have been pre-vetted, and processes

A well-designed framework begins with market

are compliant, which reduces contract risk. Quality

engagement. This is where demand is assessed, and

is assured, as all suppliers have met a minimum

the capacity and capability of the supply market are

standard. Pricing is transparent, and internal

understood. These insights shape the tender documents,

procurement costs are reduced. Frameworks also

which clearly set out the quality, capability, experience,

create space for innovation within the scope, and

social value and sustainability criteria required to join the

social value considerations are built in, which is an

framework. Bidders must meet mandatory requirements

important factor for the public sector.

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FEATURE PROCUREMENT

3

2

The YPO vision At YPO, we recognised the need within the public sector for an MMC framework that is compliant with the Procurement Act 2023. Through close work with our public sector colleagues, we understand the resource and time pressures they face, and how frameworks can help ease these challenges. The aim was to provide

4

YPO YPO is a major public sector buying organisation established in 1974. It aggregates the procurement spend of the public sector to drive efficiency savings through bulk-buying power for product supplies and centralised contract services. It currently has in place (2026-2030) the framework ‘Modular Buildings and Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) – 1230’.

This framework provides a route to market and full turnkey solutions for the purchase or hire of modular buildings across the education, health, housing and justice sectors.

a single, reliable solution that supports consistent quality, reduces procurement burden and gives buyers confidence in a complex and evolving market. We

needed. Customers gain access to a knowledgeable and

engaged with the market to create a framework that sets

rigorously assessed supply base and receive support

a minimum standard while remaining flexible enough

throughout their procurement, enabling fast, successful

to support innovation. We required the Common

and compliant outcomes.

Assessment Standard as a condition of participation

Buyers also need to engage with a framework at the

to provide assurance of suppliers’ capability and

right time. Frameworks are most valuable when used early,

compliance with building regulations.

not as a rubber-stamp procurement route after the design

The framework has been designed to remain flexible

is already fixed. Many buyers are missing the opportunity

in a market where construction costs and material

to use frameworks and their suppliers as a tool in early

availability can change quickly. Pricing structures

engagement to shape the scope of a project and find

allow for transparency and regular review, helping

innovative solutions. Suppliers want the opportunity to

buyers manage budgets with greater confidence.

showcase their in-house expertise and collaborate with

Our lot structure covers all major building types,

clients from the outset to create a lasting solution.

including education, healthcare, catering and housing,

When frameworks are used intelligently and at the

enabling both market leaders and specialist small and

right stage, they become far more than a procurement

medium-sized enterprises to be appointed. Most lots

route. Engage early, use the framework as it was

offer the choice between award without competition

designed, and draw on supplier expertise from the

or a competitive selection process, and our dedicated

outset. Doing so leads to better-designed projects,

team can provide template documentation where

stronger partnerships and more successful outcomes. 

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Find out more at: www.ypo.co.uk

55

CO-LOCATED WITH THE OFFSITE AWARDS

15 SEPTEMBER 2026 NCC, BIRMINGHAM Explore Offsite Conference 2026 is an industry event bringing together leaders, innovators, policymakers and practitioners from across the offsite manufacturing, technology and modern methods of construction (MMC) sectors.

The conference will provide a focused platform to explore the latest innovations, emerging trends and strategic opportunities shaping the future of the offsite manufacturing and construction sector.

SPEAKER PROGRAMME COMING SOON!

WWW.EXPLOREOFFSITE.CO.UK

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Issue 52 April / May 2026

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The conference programme will showcase recent winners of the Offsite Awards, profiling best-in-class projects and technologies across multiple sectors and construction systems.

Core themes running throughout the event will include:

• Skills and Training – attracting new human resources to the sector • Industry Transformation & Pipeline Development

2026

Hosted in the evening of 15 September, the Offsite Awards will celebrate excellence, innovation and achievement across the offsite and MMC sector.

• Standardisation, Digital and Platform Design Opportunities • Case Studies - Delivery at Scale

If you are interested in speaking at the conference, please submit your speaker proposal to ellie.guest@radar-media.co.uk, including your name, job title, company, and proposed presentation topic.

THANK YOU TO OUR EXHIBITORS AND SPONSORS! Headline Exhibitor

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

57

EVENT OFFSITE AWARDS 2026

Champions in the Making

15 SEPTEMBER, NATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE, BIRMINGHAM

After a huge effort by an industry panel of expert judges, the shortlist for the Offsite Awards 2026 has been finalised. Are you on the list?

The Explore Offsite Conference 2026 is a one-day industry event bringing together leaders, innovators, policymakers and practitioners from across the offsite manufacturing, MMC and industrialised construction sectors. The conference will provide a focused platform to explore the latest innovations, emerging trends and strategic opportunities shaping the future of the offsite manufacturing and construction sector.

1 THE JUDGING is complete, and the finalists for the Offsite Awards 2026 have now been decided. This year’s shortlist showcases an outstanding mix of projects, pioneering technologies and industry-leading innovation. With more than 150 entries submitted across 19 categories, the competition has once again highlighted the breadth of talent, expertise and innovation driving the offsite industry forward.

Attention now turns to the Offsite Awards

2

themselves, taking place on 15 September at the National Conference Centre, Birmingham.

Following feedback from attendees over recent

life and continue to transform the built environment.

years, the Offsite Awards 2026 will – for the first time –

As always, the 21-strong judging panel faced the mighty

feature a classic, seated three-course dinner, preceded

task of selecting finalists from an exceptionally strong

by a networking drinks reception. Held alongside

field. The judges were impressed by the quality, diversity

the one-day Explore Offsite Conference, the evening

and innovation demonstrated across every single category,

offers an exceptional opportunity to connect with

making this year’s shortlist one of the strongest yet.

industry leaders, peers and clients while celebrating

The Awards promises to be memorable evening,

the very best the offsite sector has to offer.

combining recognition, celebration and high-profile

Much more than a celebration of achievement, the

networking in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. Over

Awards provide a platform for recognising excellence,

the following pages, you can have a sneak preview of

sharing game-changing ideas, building valuable

the outstanding entries selected by our judges that

connections and showcasing the innovations shaping

have made the cut and are now in the running for one

the future of construction. They also offer the perfect

of the sector’s most prestigious accolades. 

Image 1: Winner of Winners 2025.

Paradise SE11, B&K Structures, Bywater Properties, GilbertAsh, Webb Yates, FCB Studios, Engenuiti & Stora Enso Image 2: Best Use of MEP & Pod Technology, Winner 2025. HMP Millsike, Kier Construction

opportunity to relax and unwind with colleagues during the Explore Offsite event while recognising the remarkable accomplishments of the industry.

Covering every aspect of offsite construction – including timber, steel, precast concrete, hybrid and modular technologies, MEP, structural engineering and everything in between – the Awards celebrate the collaborative efforts that bring outstanding projects to

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Every finalist represents the very best of the industry, but who will take home the trophies? Join our finalists, judges, sponsors and industry colleagues for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate this year’s winners and highly commended entries. For tickets, table bookings and more information on the Offsite Awards 2026 email Rhian Morris at: rhian.morris@radar-media.co.uk or visit: www.offsiteawards.co.uk

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EGGER Peel Clean Xtra Large Your Offsite MMC Solution

Optimised for offsite efficiency

Designed specifically for MMC workflows, PCXL helps manufacturers achieve: • Faster installation – 1200 mm wide • Reduced material handling

EGGER Peel Clean Extra Large is designed for offsite timber flooring cassette manufacturing. The 2400 x 1200 x 22mm T&G2 panel ensures faster installation, reduced material handling, minimised gluing, and less wastage. The finished floor can remain exposed to the elements for up to 60 days* and its recyclable, anti-slip film prevents moisture ingress and ensures a clean floor ready for handover.

• Minimised gluing • Less wastage on the factory floor

*KIWA BDA Agrément BAF-19-129-S-A-UK For more information visit to.egger.link/pcx www.offsitemagazine.co.uk www.linkedin.com/company/exploreoffsite

Issue 53 July/August 2026

59

EVENT OFFSITE AWARDS 2026

Building Performance Pioneer

Best Use of Timber Technology

Aireavu and Portakabin: Setting a New

B&K Hybrid Solutions: Metropolis

Standard for Intelligent Modular Buildings

Kier Group: Northstowe Community Centre

Lowfield Timber Frames & Footprint

Kier Group: Court Schools - Ysgol Cynefin

Architects: Little Barn | New Forest

MAKAR: Paradigm Prototype Home

Sustainable Family Dwelling

SIP Build UK: Beamish Passive House

MAKAR: Paradigm Prototype Home

SIP Build UK: Oldfield School STEM Facility

OSM, an NG Bailey Group company:

STREIF UK: The Helen Keen Building at

Manchester Airport T2 Pier 2 Phase 2 Best Use of Concrete Technology 2025 Winner

Portakabin: Modular Research Building at CAVE, UCL

Maidstone Grammar School For Girls TALO: Croft Mews for Balma Group - offsite superstructure solution

Best Use of Concrete Technology

University of Staffordshire, Willmott Dixon Construction, C W Architects, Ramboll, WIEHAG : SUSV Village Hub

Cartwright Pickard: Kellstone

Xylotek: Cycle Pavilion, Oxford North

DEPROM: Peterborough Road, London – Load-Bearing Precast Facade Explore Manufacturing - Laing O’Rourke: Ellison Shell Beam System for the Ellison Institute of Technology project Kier Group: Network Building, Fitzrovia Milbank Concrete Products: Trocoll House

Best Use of Volumetric Technology 2025 Winner

Best Use of Timber Technology 2025 Winner

Best Use of Volumetric Technology

Digital Innovation Award

Ecosystems Technologies: Social Bite

with Procore at Deeside Timberframe

Villages

DEPROM: Peterborough Road – Digital

Modular 500: Wendy’s & Starbucks Dual

Delivery of Precast Facade

Drive-Thru Development

Explore Manufacturing - Laing O’Rourke:

Pickerings Hire: Highams Park School

Centre of Excellence for Modern

Deeside Timberframe: Digital Innovation

Temporary Building

Construction

Tide, Vision and MJH: The Castle, Acton

McAvoy: Delivering Digitally Enabled

ZED PODS: Marshall Walk Best Use of Hybrid Technology 2025 Winner

Offsite Construction at Scale SustainIQ: Integrated ESG & Carbon Intelligence for Offsite Construction

Best Use of Hybrid Technology

Best Use of MEP & POD Technology

B&K Hybrid Solutions: 38 Berkeley Square

King & Moffatt Offsite: Automotive

B&K Hybrid Solutions: Fife College,

Manufacturing Expansion

Dunfermline Learning Campus

NUGENT: Alkerden Academy, Ebbsfleet

Ecosystems Technologies: Hiltingbury

Garden City, Kent

Junior School

OSM, an NG Bailey Group company:

Elkins Construction: Greenwich Builds

Manchester Airport T2 Pier 2 Phase 2

New Homes

SES and Unipart: HMP Highpoint

PCE, Related Argent, BAM, ShedKM, HTS, Curtins: 3 Copper Square

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Best Use of MEP & POD Technology 2025 Winner

Sterchele Group: Greenwich Peninsula Plot 19.05 / Peninsula Gardens

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

Delivering Industrialised Construction with Confidence

Cogent is a leading multi-disciplinary consultancy specialising in the field of offsite manufacturing and industrialised construction. Through our unparalleled range of skills, we offer independent advice on successfully exploiting innovative modern methods of construction (MMC).

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: Feasibility & viability assessments Cost planning & benchmarking Procurement strategy & route to market

Image courtesy: Vision Volumetric

Manufacturing set-up & optimisation

Partner with us to turn ambition into delivery

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Programme & delivery planning Risk management & commercial control Supply chain engagement & integration Technical advisory for offsite systems

01743 290010 info@cogent-consulting.co.uk

Issue 53 July/August 2026

cogent-consulting.co.uk

61

EVENT OFFSITE AWARDS 2026

Best Use of Steel Technology

Engineer of the Year

Tide, Vision and MJH: The Castle, Acton

Adrien Gallet, Unipart: Advanced Digital

Design 4 Structures: Demonstration

Design & Optimisation Platform

Modular Temporary Housing Solution

Design 4 Structures: Demonstration

Metek Plc: Retirement Living for Inspired

Modular Temporary Housing Solution

Villages Group at Sonning Common

Engenuiti, Citu, Stora Enso and Hasslacher:

Panacea Building Systems: Downtown

The Place Fire Remediation

Victoria North, Manchester

Heyne Tillett Steel: Timber Square

Remagin by Etex: University of Staffordshire

MJH Structural Engineers: The Castle, Acton

Architect of the Year 2025 Winner

Architect of the Year Cartwright Pickard: Island & Kellstone HTA Design: The Castle, Acton P+HS Architects: Milford Community Diagnostics Centre, Cumberland UTC & Best Use of Steel Technology 2025 Winner

Congleton War Memorial Hospital Rivington Street Studio: JFK Special School,

Client of the Year

Beckton

Antony Cockerell / AR18: AR18 Eco Factory

Stride Treglown: Chilmington Green Orsett

Mid Devon District Council - Zero-operational-

Heath School

carbon social housing scheme: Crofts House, St Andrews House and Shapland Place

Engineer of the Year 2025 Winner

MOJ: HMP Highpoint Starbucks: Starbucks Drive-Thru Development

Offsite Pioneer of the Year

University of Staffordshire: Student Village

Explore Manufacturing - Laing O’Rourke: Centre of Excellence for Modern Construction Education Project of the Year 2025 Winner

Education Project of the Year B&K Hybrid Solutions: Fife College,

Hawkins\Brown: Standardised Design Approaches Study HLM Architects: Think Offsite Innovaré: Innovaré Offsite - 20 Years In, Still Pushing Forward

Dunfermline Learning Campus

London Heritage Offsite: Behind the Façade

HLM Architects: Trent View College Kier Group: The Cavendish Building, University of Derby Kier Group: Court Schools - Ysgol Cynefin McAvoy: Leeds City College Park Lane Campus

Client of the Year 2025 Winner

Natural Building Systems: Old Newton School

Contractor of the Year B&K Hybrid Solutions: London Luton Airport Multi-Storey Car Park McAvoy: Leeds City College NUGENT: NUGENT (Michael Nugent Limited) Willmott Dixon: SUSV Village Hub ZED PODS: Crofts House and Marshall Walk

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

Rivington Street Studio: JFK Special School, Beckton STREIF UK: The Helen Keen Building at Maidstone Grammar School For Girls Stride Treglown: Chilmington Green School University of Staffordshire, Willmott Dixon Construction, C W Architects, Ramboll, WIEHAG: SUSV Village Hub

Offsite Pioneer of the Year 2025 Winner

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

Thoughtful design.

It’s in our nature.

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mcavoygroup.com info@mcavoygroup.com | 0330 107 0799

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Issue 53 July/August 2026

63

EVENT OFFSITE AWARDS 2026

Commercial Project of the Year

Product Innovation Award

B&K Hybrid Solutions: Tesco Low Carbon

Aireavu: The Modular Building

Concept Store

Performance Platform

Cartwright Pickard: Island

Castleforms: ICF Fireblock

Engenuiti, AR18 Limited, Fraser Architects,

Darwin Group: On-Demand® Ultraclean

Buckland Timber, Hasslacher and Boxmoor:

Operating Theatre

AR18 Eco Factory

DEPROM: Peterborough Road, London –

Engenuiti, Constructional Timber, CBRE Investment Management, Aros, Gensler and

Healthcare Project of the Year 2025 Winner

Load-Bearing Precast Facade Ibstock: Ibstock Fastwall ®

Mace: 10 Gresham Street Rooftop Pavilion

Healthcare Project of the Year

Heyne Tillett Steel and Hybrid Structures:

HLM Architects: Prince Charles Hospital (PCH)

Timber Square

Details, Testing, Auditing and Governance

James Paget University Hospitals NHS

Framework

Foundation Trust: Orthopaedic Outpatient

SustainIQ: Integrated ESG & Carbon

Centre Delivered by Darwin Group

Intelligence for Offsite Construction

Kier Group: Emily Siddon Building,

TALO: Advanced offsite technology to

University of Huddersfield

accelerate the construction of ultra-low

McAvoy: Good Hope Hospital Medical

energy homes

Assessment Unit

The ‘Lift in a Box’ by Vertiq: A Laing

P+HS Architects: Cumberland Infirmary

O’Rourke capability: The ‘Lift in a Box’

Urgent Treatment Centre

Tufcoat: Specialist temporary weather

Commercial Project of the Year 2025 Winner

OSKOP Alliance: The new OSKOP Platform:

protection and environmental containment

International Project of the Year

systems for the MMC industry

NUGENT: St Ronan’s College, Lurgan O’Reilly Precast: Secure Children’s Home SUMMARY: G - 5 Houses in Arouca, Portugal TALO: Advanced offsite technology to accelerate the construction of ultra-low

Residential Project of the Year 2025 Winner

energy homes Zenon: LensCrafters Stores, USA & Canada

Residential Project of the Year B&K Hybrid Solutions: Univ North, University College Oxford Deeside Timberframe: Archerview, Kilwinning, Private Housing Development Engenuiti, Tigg Coll, Buckland Timber, Marmus and Stella Rossa: Float House Panacea Building Systems: Warwick Road South, Old Trafford

International Project of the Year 2025 Winner

SIP Build UK: Granby Farm Grove - Harrogate

The 2026 Offsite Awards sponsors include:

Product Innovation Award 2025 Winner

Book your tickets here:

or visit: www.offsiteawards.co.uk

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NCC, BIRMINGHAM

Celebrate excellence in offsite construction by joining industry leaders, innovators and project teams at the Offsite Awards 2026.

The Offsite Awards provide an excellent opportunity to network with industry professionals, celebrate success and gain insight into the innovation and best practice shaping the future of the built environment.

What’s Included With Your Ticket • Entry to the Offsite Awards 2026 • Drinks reception • Three-course awards dinner • Awards ceremony and presentations

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

• Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers

LIMITED SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE Contact Julie Williams on julie.williams@radar-media.co.uk or call 01743 290042

WWW.OFFSITEAWARDS.CO.UK

AT

DIARY DATES 2026 UPCOMING UK EVENTS

Dates for your diary EXPLORE OFFSITE CONFERENCE  15 September 2026  NCC, Birmingham Explore Offsite Conference 2026 is an industry event bringing together leaders, innovators, policymakers and practitioners from across the offsite manufacturing, technology and modern methods of construction (MMC) sectors. The conference will provide a focused platform to explore the latest innovations, emerging trends and strategic opportunities shaping the future of the offsite manufacturing and construction sector.

OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION AWARDS  15 September 2026  NCC, Birmingham The Awards provide a platform for recognising excellence, sharing game-changing ideas, building valuable connections and showcasing the innovations shaping the future of construction. Following feedback from attendees over recent years, the Offsite Awards 2026 will – for the first time – feature a classic, seated three-course dinner, preceded by a networking drinks reception. For tickets, table bookings and more information visit the Offsite Awards website.

STRUCTURAL TIMBER CONFERENCE  07 October 2026  NCC, Birmingham In partnership with the STA, the Conference will provide a focal point for celebrating timber’s success and steering discussions that will define its future. The event will feature a wide-ranging programme of keynote speakers, technical seminars, and forward-thinking expert panel discussions, tackling subjects including sustainability, industrialised construction and timber supply capability.

STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS  07 October 2026  NCC, Birmingham Featuring examples of what can be achieved using the most natural and sustainable of materials, the Awards are returning to celebrate outstanding projects, inspiring individuals, and the coming together of an industry. Winners will be announced at the prestigious awards ceremony celebrating architectural achievements and engineering ingenuity in timber construction.

TALL BUILDINGS CONFERENCE AND AWARDS  13 October 2026  Birmingham The Tall Buildings Midlands Conference will be a day of reflection, inspiration and insight and in the evening the Tall Buildings Awards will take place. Featuring council members, policymakers and the professionals responsible for designing and delivering tall buildings, the conference will facilitate open and honest discussions about the region’s tall buildings strategy, investment opportunities and key challenges facing architects.

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