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Industry News
NEWS IN BRIEF BSW Timber Introduces ‘Micro’ CLT to UK Market
STA Publish Self Build Starter Pack Developed to support the growing number of people building their own homes, the Structural Timber Association (STA) has launched a comprehensive Self Build Starter Pack – providing a step-by-step guide to building in timber frame and Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs). The appetite for custom and self-build construction is strong, with around 12,000 homes completed each year – accounting for approximately 7-10% of the UK’s housing market. Structural timber is an appealing solution for self-builders, thanks to the numerous benefits it offers, such as faster build times, better cost predictability, superior quality control and greater design flexibility compared to traditional building approaches. Intended to demystify the process of building your own home, the starter pack addresses the increasing demand for guidance in the self-build sector, providing essential information on the features, differences and benefits of timber frame and SIPs. The pack also includes detailed information on the step-by-step build process from initial design through to completion, including planning applications and site preparation. In addition, the comprehensive resource provides guidance on quality assurance and manufacturer selection, helping self-builders choose STA Assure certified manufacturers for guaranteed quality and compliance. Further critical sections focus on insurance, warranties and risk reduction, as well as tackling mortgage guidance and debunking common myths about the financing of timber construction projects. Andrew Orris, Interim CEO of the STA, commented: “Self-building is becoming increasingly popular as people seek greater control over their housing solutions and look for more sustainable, energy-efficient homes. However, navigating the complexities of construction methods, regulations
and quality standards can be daunting for firsttime self-builders. This starter pack simplifies the process and showcases why timber frame and SIPs construction represents the smart choice for modern self-builders – offering speed, sustainability, design freedom and peace of mind, when delivered by our STA Assure certified members.” The STA also appointed Gerard Lockey as a board member to represent members from the installer category. As the current Director of MINT Construction, a company specialising in structural timber frame installations, Gerard brings more than 30 years of industry experience to the leadership team and plays a key role in delivering high-profile timber construction projects, including notable works like Brent Cross West station. “We are pleased to announce the appointment of Gerard Lockey, who has been an active member of the STA for many years, chairing the Skills and Training Committee,” said Andrew Orriss. “He was instrumental in the introduction of the Timber Frame Competency Award Scheme and oversaw the evolution of that into the Installer Training Scheme we have today. The Board is very grateful for the time and effort Gerard has already committed over the years, and it seems fitting that he is now given this opportunity to further support and represent the installer membership category, particularly with the growing interest for structural timber systems in the market.” Gerard Lockey added: “I’m excited to be joining STA, especially at a time where the UK is witnessing such positive growth with the adoption of timber frame in housebuilding, and housebuilders of all sizes transitioning towards the technology. Having already worked with the STA in the interests of installers, joining the board offers a great opportunity to carry on that important work.”
BSW Timber recently released a range of new products to the UK. Via a partnership with binderholz (BSW Group’s parent company), this included a line of decorative micro CLT panels. The 3-layer solid wood spruce panel with tongue and groove connections on all four edges is a first for the UK market and is aimed at builders and DIY markets.
CCG (Scotland) Makes New Board Appointment CCG (Scotland) has appointed long-serving employee and a key architect of its Technical Department, Gary Weir, to its Board. Gary’s promotion to Technical Director underscores CCG’s continued commitment to excellence in preconstruction, quality assurance, and innovation, and he joins a board led by Chairman and CEO, Alastair Wylie, and Group Managing Director, David Wylie.
TALO Appoints Head of Design as Part of Expansion TALO has appointed Gordon Ashton as its first Head of Design. TALO brings timber offsite manufacturing technology from Finland to build ultra-low energy homes in the UK, which exceed Passivhaus energy standards and at no cost premium. As Head of Design, Gordon will work closely with clients and their design teams at pre-construction stage, before projects move into the offsite manufacturing phase.
Mass Timber Mega Roof to Cover 10,000 Spectators Construction is underway on the world’s largest freespan timber roof in Vancouver, Canada. The Freedom Mobile Arch, located in Hastings Park, will see a 105m column-free canopy built from glulam beams, CLT and a steel-tensioned oculus in an amphitheatre holding up to 10,000 people. The 18 glulam beams that will extend from the central oculus will each be over 50m long.
NORclad Launch New Timber Cladding Ranges National Timber Group’s specialist cladding division has unveiled the Tailor’s Collection and Natura Collection to expand the Group’s offering of pre-finished timber solutions. Phil Nash, Cladding Manager at NTG England said both new ranges offer architects and installers more design freedom without compromising on performance and have the trusted protection of Remmers coatings.
Illegal Timber Sourcing Undermining Ethical Businesses A recent investigation By Australian company Source Certain, has uncovered that timber illegally sourced from Russia is still entering the UK housing supply chain, with false labelling as sourced from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Think Timber, a strategic partner to the timber staircase sector, has developed bespoke packaging featuring a unique QR code to provide origin traceability.
www.timefortimber.org
Structural Timber Magazine – Issue 40 – Autumn 2025
@STMagUK