Explore Offsite in the Housing Sector was declared a huge success by over 400 construction clients, architects, engineers and contractors who attended the event. The professionals gathered to share their views on how offsite construction technology could play a vital role in the delivery of new houses and in combatting the current housing crisis.
Calum Murray from CCG-Scotland Ltd said: “Innovation and change are our focus.” And emphasised that the sector needs to modernise its methods, stating: “Offsite can make the difference and is part of the package of solutions when approaching the housing crisis and the skills shortage.”
Tony Woods Offsite Construction Specialist, LHC and Stephen Wightman Managing Director, Caledonian Modular discussed the methods behind offsite and how best to approach the skills shortage. Woods considered the 2004 Barker Report, which analysed the number of houses required to manage the increasing population. “If the government wants to achieve its targets it needs to look at other methods because the skills shortages are just going to carry on,” said Woods.
The issues discussed varied from the advantages of building with modular construction to the benefits of building without wet trades. Pickard advocated for offsite as a more efficient method, arguing that prefabricated building can produce good design and reduces the amount of wet trade and scaffolding involved in the process.
Tom Ground CEO, Legal and General said Explore Offsite in Housing was: “An enjoyable event with interesting discussions.” Whilst James Pickard Director, Cartwright Pickard commented: “It’s a great turnout with some really interesting questions from the audience.”
The conference left delegates interested to find out more, with many saying that they will be sure to attend the other Explore Offsite events later in the year. Two documentary film makers from the BBC also attended the event and said: “Thanks to all on the Explore Offsite team for letting us attend. It was brilliant for us and we also managed to have a very constructive meeting alongside the conference on the Thursday afternoon. Highest praise to all for organising such an excellent event.”
This was the first in a two part series of Explore Offsite events which are scheduled to be held across the UK this year – tickets are just £125 to include refreshments and lunch.
For more information visit: www.exploreoffsite.co.uk
Book early to avoid disappointment: www.exploreoffsite.co.uk/book
