Advancing Social Housing: Integrating Traditional Construction with Modern Methods
The Integrated Traditional Build and MMC Framework
The Integrated Traditional Build and MMC Framework was developed following feedback from social housing providers who expressed a need for reliable local building firms to spearhead MMC projects while incorporating traditional construction elements.
This innovative framework, spearheaded by Building Better and PfH, seeks to expand the use of MMC in social housing throughout England and Wales.
Building Better is an alliance supported by the National Housing Federation, comprising housing associations and councils.
In addition to twenty eminent traditional builders, two MMC specialist firms have joined this four-year framework. This initiative is set to equip social housing providers with the means to efficiently procure principal contractor services for diverse MMC projects, including low and medium-rise housing, apartment developments, and extra-care homes, as stated by Building Better and PfH.
Industry Commentary
Commenting on the framework, Tony Woods, Technical Manager – Construction and Sustainability at PfH, noted:
“In recent years, we have observed MMC companies shifting focus towards manufacturing systems rather than delivering turnkey services. It seems prudent to engage traditional builders who possess strong local reputations to manage these MMC projects while executing any necessary traditional build components.”
Notable among the traditional builders are CG Fry & Son, Feltham Construction, and Wates Residential.
Meanwhile, the two MMC firms onboard include Agile Property and Homes and Enevate Homes.
Mr Woods further added:
“This framework offers councils and housing associations a compliant pathway to secure principal contractor services for MMC projects.”
Perspectives from the Industry
Jamie Watkins, Operations Manager at Elkins Construction, remarked:
“In recent times, our clients have increasingly demanded net-zero homes, prompting a need for more innovation in our building practices.”
Watkins emphasised that MMC or hybrid construction can lead to reduced on-site time, enhanced quality, and a lowered environmental footprint.
Lewis Tolputt, Business Development Manager at Classic Builders, stated:
“As a traditional contractor established over two decades ago, we continuously seek innovation to offer our clients broader choices. Utilising MMC products is one technique by which we maintain a competitive edge.”
The Current State of MMC Adoption
The adoption of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) has witnessed varying levels of success thus far.
Category 2 MMC, characterised by panellised systems, is gaining some traction. However, fully modular houses (Category 1 MMC) have encountered challenges in the UK, despite their success abroad.
Earlier this year, a House of Lords inquiry declared the government’s MMC approach as being in a state of “disarray.”
The situation for modular home builder TopHat serves as an example, as the company was hit with a winding-up petition and announced plans to make approximately 70 staff redundant while delaying the opening of their substantial new factory in Northamptonshire.
Looking Ahead
Nevertheless, developments in MMC continue, with Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram launching an initiative to deliver MMC homes boasting zero energy bills.
This development aims to position the region as a centre of excellence for offsite construction.
In Summary
This article encapsulates how traditional contractors and MMC specialists are working collaboratively to push the boundaries of innovation in social housing, building towards a sustainable and efficient future.
Read the original article post in Inside Housing here