Next level manufacturing with MiTek

 

Next level manufacturing with MiTek: exploring the Mark 1 Easyjig Press with Virtek laser precision

 

MiTek is driving machine automation in the construction industry with the Mark 1 Easyjig Press and Virtek lasers.

With the latest installation of press systems bringing the total number now in operation across the UK and Ireland to 14, MiTek is meeting the growing demand for automation within the sector.

Dave Thomas, Commercial Leader, EMEA Automation, said:

“The Mark 1 Easyjig Press puts our customers at the forefront of technological innovation. By driving efficiency and increasing output through automation, it helps manufacturers boost productivity.  “What’s more, the press is also fully compatible with MiTek’s design and production software, which means a connected experience for our customers.”

The benefits of the Mark 1 Easyjig Press are clear. It uses the latest technology to improve efficiency for manufacturers, streamlining operations and boosting roof truss production. The press is quicker and more accurate. A user-friendly operation helps workforces while increasing production capacity.  Production is faster compared to non-automated presses. The Autojig feature reduces setup time by automatically positioning the jigs based on design specifications.  Customers particularly value the integrated Virtek laser system, which means manufacturing is exact, consistent and of a higher quality.  The Mark 1 Easyjig Press has an easy-to-use touchscreen monitor, and its inbuilt WiFi network connectivity offers a joined up and efficient experience for manufacturers. It’s intuitive design also means people can be trained quickly, operating the machine in a matter of days, in contrast to traditional systems which can take months.

Take a look at our showreel to see the Mark 1 Easyjig Press in action,

and understand how it can increase production and simplify processes with automation

Press tables are available in a range of sizes, so a truss can be outlined in 40 seconds, for easier, quicker and more precise production across the board.

MiTek’s support goes beyond delivering the machine. The team work closely with customers through every stage of the planning and installation process, optimising workspace layouts for customers to ensure they get the best performance from the Mark 1 Easyjig Press. MiTek also provide technical guidance and full staff training for a smooth transition.
Crendon Timber Engineering has already invested in several press systems across its business as part of its focus on automation and goals to futureproof its operations.

Speaking of the installation of its sixth Mark 1 machine at its East Harling site, Crendon Timber Engineering’s Regional Director Graeme Denham is a firm believer in what the machine can do.

He said: “We’re already seeing improvements in increased productivity using the Easyjig system.   “The key with MiTek is being able to buy all the manufacturing equipment as well as the software, as well as the plates. It’s a one stop shop and that’s a great buying power for us.”

Take a look at our showreel to see the Mark 1 Easyjig Press in action, and understand how it can increase production and simplify processes with automation.

Ready to improve your operations? CLICK HERE to talk to MiTek today

 

or CLICK HERE to email us

 

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Nuaire ventilation systems now with Passivhaus certification

 

Indoor air quality and ventilation manufacturing specialist Nuaire is pleased to announce Passivhaus certification has been achieved on BPS Passivhaus air handling units (AHU) and XBC Passivhaus packaged heat recovery units.

With buildings contributing significantly to harmful carbon emissions, Passivhaus provides proven solutions to deliver net-zero-ready buildings that also provide a high level of occupant health and wellbeing.  Passivhaus adopts a whole-building approach with clear, measured targets, focused on high-quality construction, certified through an exacting quality assurance process.  For a building to achieve the Passivhaus Standard in the UK, a mechanical ventilation system with highly efficient heat recovery is considered a core principle.

Rigorously independently tested under realistic conditions to ensure they meet the strict Passivhaus efficiency, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality criteria, Nuaire’s BPS Passivhaus AHUs in sizes 12,17, 22, 32 and 42, and XBC Passivhaus packaged heat recovery units in sizes 55 and 65 have now been certified as Passivhaus compliant components.

BPS Passivhaus is a range of high specification packaged AHUs designed and engineered to provide an efficient, high performing, compact solution for a multitude of applications.  Efficiency comes from a dual compressor system that uses less energy than one single large compressor, a high efficiency thermal wheel, and minimal air leakage (it has the top L1 leakage classification).  BPS Passivhaus AHUs feature a high quality double lined acoustic end panel insulated with Rockwool for reduced noise breakout and low leakage, ensuring the unit is airtight.  BPS Passivhaus AHUs feature M5 extract air filters, enabling pollutants as small as 1 micron to be captured, and G4 and G7 supply air filters which are designed to stop larger pollutant particles from entering.

With a plate heat exchanger with efficiencies of up to 95%, XBC Passivhaus are high performance packaged heat recovery units designed to improve indoor air quality whilst saving energy.  High classification F7 and G4 extract filters have been installed to ensure the units meet the high Passivhaus air quality standards, whilst airtight seals prevent heat or air loss up to L2 leakage classification.  They have been designed with the lowest possible noise breakout for user acceptance, and are easy to install, commission and maintain.  XBC Passivhaus is available with LPHW or electric heating options as standard, with cooling modules also available as an ancillary.

Both BPS Passivhaus and XBC Passivhaus are fitted with high classification class 3 dampers to ensure the units remain airtight, mitigating weak points in a Passivhaus build.

CLICK HERE for more information on Nuaire’s BPS Passivhaus and XBC Passivhaus products

 

 

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Domus Ventilation ducting delivering comfort at new York aparthotel

Domus Ventilation rigid ducting has been installed at a new luxury aparthotel in one of York’s most architecturally renowned streets, Micklegate, as part of the Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system installed throughout the new development.

Situated within York’s central historic core conservation area, Micklegate has been designed with a contemporary interpretation of the medieval streetscape.  A new addition to the Supercity Aparthotel portfolio, it features 46 beautifully designed apartment suites designed for luxury, practicality, and comfort, along with a ground floor restaurant and bar.

Contributing to the comfort of guests, the MVHR system in place extract stale air, and transfer the heat from it to the fresh air drawn into the building.  But an MVHR can only perform to its best ability when paired with suitable, quality ducting.  Domus Ventilation ducting has exacting tolerances and connects together for minimal air and moisture loss and maximum system efficiency.  The ducting has been designed to work in harmony as part of a system and has been third party tested for end-to-end system performance.

Domus 204×60 Rigid Duct and fittings have been used at the new Micklegate aparthotel throughout, along with Domus sound attenuators.  The latter absorbs sound over a range of audible frequencies travelling through ductwork, such as the MVHR fan, external traffic noise or room-to-room-cross talk, making it an ideal addition in a hotel.

York based M&E contractor J. H. Shouksmith & Sons is a long standing Domus Ventilation customer and was responsible for specifying and installing Domus Ventilation ducting on this project.

“We always use Domus ducting on any contract we undertake due to the ease of installation and the large mixture of fittings available” comments Carl Turner, Senior Contracts Manager.  Carl is also impressed with the service provided by Domus Ventilation: “It’s very good and any queries or information required is answered quickly.”

Domus Ventilation is a manufacturer of market-leading ventilation systems that save energy and improve indoor air quality. Established over 30 years ago, and part of the Genuit Group plc, Domus Ventilation manufactures high quality and solution based ventilation products for the domestic and light commercial building industry from its state-of-the-art production facilities in South Wales.  The company provides differentiated ventilation solutions, transforming the way developers, contractors, installers, home owners and distributors meet Building Regulations Parts B, F & L and emerging environmental standards.

CLICK HERE for more information on Domus Ventilation products

 

 

 

 

 

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Exclusive partnership to expand straw panel construction in the UK & Ireland

EcoCocon and Ecological Building Systems announce exclusive partnership to expand straw panel construction in the UK & Ireland

In a significant move for sustainable construction, EcoCocon, a leading European manufacturer of prefabricated straw wall panels, has entered into an exclusive partnership with Ecological Building Systems, a well-established distributor of sustainable building materials in the UK and Ireland.

The partnership will make EcoCocon’s innovative straw-based wall system more accessible to professionals across the UK and Irish construction markets — combining bio-based innovation with localised technical expertise.

EcoCocon’s modular wall panels are made primarily from compressed straw and timber, offering Passive House-level thermal performance while significantly reducing embodied carbon. The system is robotically manufactured in Europe to ensure precision, consistency and scalability — making it a viable solution for both single-family homes and large-scale developments.

With the addition of EcoCocon to its portfolio, Ecological Building Systems will provide full distribution and technical support, including design consultation, detailing, training, and on-site assistance.

“We’re proud to partner with EcoCocon to bring this next-generation ecological wall system to our region,” said Penny Randell, UK Director and General Manager at Ecological Building Systems. “It aligns perfectly with our mission of supporting healthy, low-impact buildings through science-led guidance and proven building solutions.”

Adrian Crosson, Irish Director & General Manager at Ecological Building Systems, stated:

“From the beginning, Ecological has focused on low embodied carbon solutions that are durable, purpose-fit for the UK and Ireland, and supported by expert technical guidance from design through to construction. By combining EcoCocon straw wall panel systems with our trusted technical support, we’re making sustainable building more accessible and achievable than ever before.”

 

EcoCocon has been used in hundreds of projects across Europe, from schools and apartment buildings to custom homes and co-housing developments. The system is fully certified, supports circular construction, and is designed for fast on-site assembly, reducing build time and waste.

 

“This partnership marks a key step toward scaling up ecological construction,” adds Paul Lynch, International Sales & Network Manager at EcoCocon. “Our aim is to make sustainable, low-carbon buildings not only possible, but practical. With Ecological Building Systems, we have the right partner to support that journey in the UK and Ireland.”

The two companies emphasise that this collaboration is about more than materials — it’s about enabling the construction sector to meet the growing demand for climate-conscious, human-centric buildings.

  CLICK HERE FOR   

   

CLICK HERE FOR 

   

 

 

 

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ALTRO FEATURES IN DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY DESIGN AT SALISBURY DISTRICT HOSPITAL

A package of Altro products has been used in the Imber Ward at Salisbury District Hospital, a new, environmentally-sustainable facility. providing extra bed capacity for elderly care patients. Imber Ward is housed in the Elizabeth Building, named in honour of the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. The new £14m building provides 24 additional beds in a state-of-the-art ward, incorporating a mixture of four-bed bays and side rooms., and was part- funded by the hospital’s charity, the Stars Appeal.

A combination of Altro floors and walls was used throughout Imber Ward. Altro Illustra, Altro Suprema and Altro Operetta floors provide safety, natural aesthetics and ease of cleaning. Altro Wood provides a homely, welcoming feel and Altro Whiterock Digiclad (Custom) was used for the walls creating an individual design focus for the ward and quiet room. Altro Pisces and Altro Whiterock Satins and Altro Whiterock White were installed in the bathrooms, showers and wet rooms, giving staff and patients the reassurance of bare foot and shod safety from slips, and easy to clean hygienic walls.

Lesley Self, Salisbury District Hospital’s ArtCare Projects Officer and Julia Gregory from the hospital’s Estates Capital Projects Team used focus groups with patients, families, visitors, and clinical teams to inform the design of the new ward. The interior reflects the colourful four seasons, incorporating local landscapes with photos and drawings. Walls and floors have a biophilic theme and are customisable with digitally printed images. Unique, customised rooms aid wayfinding, ensuring each room is distinct.

Catering for elderly patients with complex needs, the design principles of creating dementia-friendly environments were vitally important. Lesley Self, ArtCare Projects Officer, says: “Patients may experience disorientation while navigating the area, so integrating wayfinding into the overall design concept was essential. Understanding these needs was part of the design process, but also helping staff take ownership and care of the spaces by understanding why design is important to them and how amazing it can look.” 

Imber Ward is the biggest capital development at Salisbury District Hospital in nearly 20 years. It provides 24 additional beds, featuring a mix of four-bed bays and side rooms, that enable elderly patients recovering from surgery to be cared for in a dedicated space tailored to their needs. By providing extra bed capacity, Imber Ward underpins the hospital’s elective recovery programme, as in turn this allows surgical beds to be better utilised to deliver much-needed elective care such as day surgery. The ward marks a major milestone in Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust’s efforts to deliver the very best compassionate, effective care to the community. 

Altro products have been used over the years in a wide range of projects at Salisbury District Hospital. Lesley Self says: “We have always used Altro products as they are great for clinical environments being versatile and providing a safe hygienic, softening finish. We know that these products will be in place for at least 20 years, so they need to be durable, flexible, and able to match changing colour schemes.”

The package of products from Altro included:

Altro Illustra: available in a range of contemporary and flexible designs, this stylish, functional and design-led safety flooring has enhanced sustained slip resistance. 

Altro Suprema: award winning, non-sparkle, low-gloss safety floor with superior stain, abrasion and scratch resistance. 

Altro Wood: a general purpose 2mm wood-effect vinyl safety floor available in a range of designs with different plank sizes and shades. 

Altro Whiterock Digiclad (Custom): a custom print option utilising UV cured inks onto an Altro Whiterock sheet from a design or photographic image. 

Altro Pisces: a domestic-look specialist floor for a “home from home”, warm feel in wet rooms and bathrooms. Altro Operetta has designer looks with 4dB sound reduction. 

Altro Whiterock Satins: a colourful and tonal, satin finish wall sheets with all the hygiene and durability of Altro Whiterock. 

Altro Whiterock White: a proven, high performance, hygienic alternative to ceramic tiles.

Find out more about Altro’s flooring and walling solutions for hospitals here:  https://www.altro.com/uk/sectors/health-and-care/hospitals 

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EUROFORM’S WEATHERCLAD® MEETS BRIEF FOR ILFRACOMBE HOMES

Euroform’s WeatherClad® wood effect shiplap planks have been selected for Devonshire Homes’ new Ilfracombe development, Mariner’s Haven.  Euroform is supplying the low maintenance, fibre cement planks, which are manufactured according to BS EN 12467: 2012+A2:2018 and have BDA Agrément certification, in six bespoke colours.

Devonshire Homes has designed the Mariner’s Haven homes in sympathy with the landscape.  A number of the house types will feature half shiplaped exteriors to reflect the character of the development’s coastal location in an elevated position overlooking Ilfracombe.

Performance and look were key criteria for product selection for Devonshire Homes.  Initially, Euroform provided samples of eight bespoke colours from which the housebuilder chose six to depict sand, grass, sea and sky.  WeatherClad® is also available in 21 standard colours, plus RAL and NCS colours on request, and Euroform provides a comprehensive range of colour matched profiles and trims.

The natural timber effect of WeatherClad®, with its random embossed grain, and the width of the board will both add to the pleasing look.  WeatherClad® boards are 230mm wide, wider than most similar boards on the market.

WeatherClad® carries third party BDA Agrément certification from KIWA, a certification recognised by architects, specifiers, engineers and building control personnel.  Certification confirms the product’s suitability and fitness for purpose in terms of performance and durability.  WeatherClad® has a European Classification of A2-s1,d0 for Reaction to Fire in accordance with BS EN 13501-1.

Weatherclad® is part of the range of Euroform’s Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) assessed products.*

Angus Cook, Managing Director at Devonshire Homes, commented: “One of our top priorities when bringing our new homes to local communities is to ensure properties are sympathetic to the local environment. This is precisely why we chose Euroform’s WeatherClad® as the colours on offer complimented the countryside and ocean scenery surrounding Mariner’s Haven. We always look to use high-quality products that will stand the test of time, and WeatherClad® promises to do just that with its strong durability and water vapour resistance. The team at Euroform have been a pleasure to work with and have provided support throughout the construction process as we work towards bringing these modern and energy-efficient homes to local house hunters who really need them.” 

Euroform’s specification manager Kieran Huotari-Francis explains, “WeatherClad® is wider than traditional cement-based cladding planks and aesthetically more pleasing than narrower options.  It was good to meet with Devonshire Homes to discuss their requirements, so that we could meet with their preferred bespoke colour choices and address their technical queries.  We are working with their on-site team to provide support during construction.”

WeatherClad® can be purchased from Euroform in split pallets, helping customers to avoid waste.    Euroform has an easy-to-use online tool for calculating the number of boards required for projects: https://www.euroform.co.uk/weatherclad-calculator/ 

An independent, award-winning house builder Devonshire Homes has been building homes in Devon and the West Country for over 30 years and is known for its high quality homes built in sympathy with the local environment.  Mariner’s Haven is delivering 347 new homes, including 38 affordable homes, ranging from one and two bedroom apartments to two, three and four bedroom houses.  The first homes were released for sale in late 2024.

Euroform has been developing, fabricating and supplying materials for the construction industry since 1995, specialising in ensuring fire and thermal compliance across its product range.  It is part of the Performance Technology Group, a group of companies supporting the construction industry to meet acoustic, fire, thermal and vibration challenges.

*000900042/1225 – Code for Construction Product Information (cpicode.org.uk)

www.euroform.co.uk 

www.devonshirehomes.co.uk 

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Injecta Fire Barrier wins prestigious Injectaclad Contractors Award

Leading installer of regulatory-compliant passive fire barriers, Injecta Fire Barrier, have been honoured with a dedicated ‘Injectaclad Contractors Award’ in recognition of their successful implementation of the Injectaclad solution across the UK.

The Injectaclad Contractors Award celebrates approved installers who demonstrate outstanding delivery, meticulous project management and a strong dedication to upholding the highest standards in fire protection.

As the UK’s first independent approved installer of the patented Injectaclad system, Injecta Fire Barrier has been commended for its commitment to compliance through minimally disruptive installations in UK high-rise buildings.

“From complex residential retrofits to large-scale remediation works, we’ve consistently delivered safe, compliant and minimally disruptive fire protection solutions using the Injectaclad system – and it’s an honour to be recognised with this prestigious Injectaclad Contractors Award!” says Shaun Tasker, Managing Director at Injecta Fire Barrier.

Injectaclad is an acrylic based graphite sealant that expands when exposed to heat to slow the spread of flames and smoke between wall and floor cavities, giving a building’s occupants critical time to safely evacuate.

By eliminating the need for major alterations to a building’s façade, the solution offers building owners a more cost-effective alternative than the removal of potentially dangerous cladding.

With the growing demand for passive fire safety solutions following the Grenfell tragedy and subsequent regulatory reforms, including the Fire Safety Act (2021), installers such as injectaclad have sought to leverage the innovative solution to help buildings across the UK become better safeguarded from fire.

“With stricter regulations creating challenges for property developers, passive fire barriers like Injectaclad are becoming essential. Now as an award-winning installer, we remain committed to providing cost-effective fire safety solutions for high-rise buildings, while supporting property developers in achieving compliance” adds Shaun.

Operating as a subsidiary in the Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC Group, Injecta Fire Barrier is a trusted partner in the fire protection industry, focusing solely on supplying and installing the innovative passive fire barriers.

With 2025 shaping up to be a busy year, filled with major projects and industry events, Injecta Fire Barrier is looking forward to expanding its reach and impact to further strengthen their role in safeguarding UK buildings from fire.

“This esteemed award is a testament to the hard work, precision and commitment our team poured into every project. A massive thank you to Injectaclad for this recognition and to our clients and partners for your continued trust in our expertise. Here’s to raising the bar in passive fire protection and to many more milestones ahead!” concludes Shaun.

More information about Injecta Fire Barrier can be found at: https://injectafirebarrier.com/ 

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A UK first: Nuaire is the first UK ventilation manufacturer to use low carbon-emissions recycled & renewably produced steel

Indoor air quality and ventilation manufacturing specialist Nuaire has announced that its Magnelis® steel based ventilations systems are now being made from XCarb® recycled and renewably produced steel.  Leading the way in sustainability, Nuaire is the first UK ventilation manufacturer to switch to this innovative steel, which will result in a 64% reduction in CO2 emissions on these products within the first year alone, compared with the same steel manufactured via the conventional steelmaking route.  Products to benefit from the transition to XCarb® steel include Nuaire’s industry leading BPS air handling units and XBOXER XBC packaged heat recovery systems.

For customers, this transition to a lower carbon-emissions steel has only positive benefits; the quality of Nuaire’s products will remain as before, with the additional benefit of helping to reduce embodied carbon within buildings. Embodied carbon – the carbon emissions associated with the material extraction and manufacture, construction, maintenance, refurbishment, and demolition of a building – makes up 20% of the UK built environment’s emissions.  To reduce this, we need to use less materials in building design, and those materials that are required should be low carbon wherever possible. Magnelis made with XCarb® recycled and renewably produced steel has an embodied carbon footprint of just 0.898  tCO2e/t of material, which is considerably lower than the 2.51tCO2e/t of material of the steel previously used, meaning Nuaire’s ventilation systems manufactured with this innovative steel help reduce a building’s embodied carbon.

“Mechanical, electrical and plumbing products are typically 23% of the embodied carbon of a building” states Alun Thomas, Engineering Director of Nuaire.  “This is a significant figure, so focussing on reducing it will make an important contribution to reducing a building’s overall embodied carbon.  We understand customers are under pressure to reduce carbon and, like ourselves, have their own Science Based Targets they are trying to meet.  We recognise the role Nuaire has to play in helping customers meet their targets, and transitioning to XCarb® low carbon-emissions steel is one of a raft of measures we are taking to support customers and, ultimately, the planet. Being the first UK ventilation manufacturer to use XCarb® is a clear statement of our intent to drive sustainability throughout our product ranges and our manufacturing processes.”

As part of this support and to assist consultants and developers in measuring embodied carbon in their projects, Nuaire now provides detailed TM65 datasheets on the majority of its products to show the embodied carbon of individual products, including a breakdown of the calculation from material extraction through to end of life disposal.

XCarb® recycled and renewably produced steel has been developed by ArcelorMittal, Europe’s largest steelmaker, as a part of their decarbonisation strategy.  Made in an electric arc furnace in Spain with guaranteed high scrap content and 100% renewable electricity, the steel has a third-party verified Environmental Product Declaration (EPD).

Nuaire was introduced to XCarb® through Steelco.  The two companies have worked together for over 25-years, exploring new advancements in steelmaking with a lower environmental impact.  Commenting on the relationship, Stuart Harper, Commercial Manager at Steelco, said: “Steelco is a proud partner to Nuaire and, with technical support provided by Arcelor Mittal, is excited to support their commitment to a more sustainable future, just one of many shared values between our companies. Now, as we look to the future, we have confidence that XCarb® plays a significant part in maintaining Nuaire’s market-leading position while safeguarding the planet for future generations.”

As part of the Genuit Group, which has pledged to be net zero by 2050 and has set rigorous carbon reduction targets, Nuaire has already made significant changes to its operations which have resulted in tangible reductions to its carbon emissions. In 2024 alone, Nuaire removed 2,000 tons of carbon from its product portfolio by, for example, implementing careful material reduction and material substitution, such as changing to recycled plastic for its ducting. 2025 will see further progressive changes in Nuaire’s drive to reduce carbon, improve sustainability, and continue to provide customers with quality, reliable ventilation solutions.

For more information on Nuaire’s ventilations systems, go to https://www.nuaire.co.uk/about/xcarb. For more information on XCarb® go to: https://europe.arcelormittal.com/sustainability/xcarb/xcarb-introduction

 

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TORMAX Automatic Access Works Swimmingly

Spennymoor Leisure Centre, County Durham, has recently undergone a significant refurbishment. As part of that, TORMAX worked with NE&C Windows & Doors Ltd to automate two sets of single sliding doors. Visitors are welcomed through the first automatic door directly into the newly revamped swimming pool reception, before going through the second sliding door into the pool area itself. 

Offering unsurpassed reliability, the TORMAX iMotion 2202.A door drive is ideal for these busy access points that experience a wide range of visitors, including young families, the elderly and less-able, offering easily adapted control of hold-open times and opening speeds to allow for safe and easy passage for all pedestrians. 

“We were delighted to be invited to work with NE&C on this important project”, said Simon Roberts, MD for TORMAX. “Our comprehensive range of advance door drives ensures a solution for almost any environment. Although not required in this instance, we can offer swing and sliding door operators that are IP65-rated and are capable of withstanding continuous immersion and splash water.”

A worldwide company, TORMAX has been delivering technologically advanced door automation for nearly 75 years. The entire iMotion range of in-house designed door drives feature none of the usual parts that wear out, such as gears and brushes, ensuring minimal ongoing maintenance requirements as well as a greatly extended life expectancy.

The TORMAX operators are also certified for rescue and escape routes.

www.tormax.co.uk

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Brownfield revival: unlocking the potential of offsite on previously developed land

The UK’s housing crisis shows no signs of easing, with demand for affordable, high-quality homes continuing to outstrip supply. At the same time, planners and policymakers are under increasing pressure to protect greenbelt land, promote sustainable development, and rejuvenate urban spaces. In this complex landscape, brownfield sites — previously developed land that is no longer in use — offer a valuable, often underutilised opportunity. But unlocking their potential requires innovation, speed, and flexibility. That’s where offsite construction can make a significant difference. MMC Editor Joe Bradbury investigates:

Offsite and modern methods of construction (MMC) have long been lauded for their speed, efficiency and quality. Yet their role in tackling brownfield challenges is only just beginning to receive the attention it deserves. When deployed thoughtfully, factory-built solutions can overcome many of the planning, logistical and environmental hurdles associated with redeveloping previously used land — helping to create vibrant, sustainable communities without encroaching on the countryside.

Why brownfield matters

The government estimates that there are over 23,000 brownfield sites across the UK, with the capacity to deliver more than one million new homes. These sites often lie in urban areas with existing infrastructure, transport links, and community services — making them highly desirable locations for new development.

However, brownfield projects come with inherent complications. Issues such as site contamination, restricted access, irregular layouts, and the need to preserve or work around existing buildings can deter traditional developers. Site preparation costs can be high, timelines uncertain, and disruption to neighbours significant.

In this context, offsite construction presents a compelling alternative.

Precision, speed and reduced disruption

Offsite methods involve manufacturing building components — or entire modules — in a controlled factory environment, which are then transported to site for assembly. This significantly reduces time spent on-site, limiting disruption to local residents and minimising the impact on surrounding infrastructure.

For brownfield projects in densely populated areas, this is a major advantage. Reduced vehicle movements, shorter construction windows, and lower noise and dust levels help developments progress smoothly, maintaining good relationships with local communities and planning authorities.

In addition, the precise, repeatable nature of offsite construction ensures that even challenging sites can be tackled with confidence. Tight footprints, unusual shapes, and complex layouts can be accommodated through flexible, digitally modelled design processes, often enabling development that would be unfeasible or cost-prohibitive using traditional techniques.

De-risking development with digital tools

One of the major barriers to brownfield development is uncertainty. Site conditions can be unpredictable, and remediation works are often more complex than anticipated. By integrating digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and 3D site scanning early in the process, offsite developers can gain a clearer understanding of the site and optimise the design accordingly.

This front-loaded design approach helps reduce errors, manage costs and de-risk the project — something particularly valuable for housing associations and local authorities working to tight budgets and delivery deadlines.

The integration of digital twin technology also allows developers to simulate energy performance, daylighting, and spatial layouts before construction begins, ensuring the final product is not only technically viable but also environmentally and socially responsive.

Creating quality homes on complicated plots

Contrary to outdated perceptions of prefab as low quality or ‘cookie-cutter’ in appearance, modern offsite construction allows for remarkable architectural flexibility. High-specification finishes, a wide choice of materials, and customisable facades mean developments can be tailored to reflect local character and planning requirements.

For brownfield sites, which may be located in conservation areas or next to heritage buildings, this design adaptability is key. Developers can create attractive, modern homes that complement their surroundings while still benefiting from the efficiency and cost control of factory-based construction.

More importantly, offsite construction tends to deliver superior build quality. With tighter tolerances and greater control over materials and workmanship, homes are built to higher environmental and performance standards, reducing heating bills and improving comfort for residents.

A partner to regeneration

Brownfield development is not just about building houses — it’s about revitalising neighbourhoods. Empty plots and derelict buildings can attract antisocial behaviour, lower surrounding property values, and blight communities. By transforming these sites into places people want to live, we can trigger wider regeneration.

Offsite construction, with its ability to deliver homes faster and more predictably, can accelerate this regeneration process. Schemes that might otherwise take years to complete can be delivered in a fraction of the time, offering immediate improvements to the urban fabric and attracting further investment.

Moreover, the use of local labour in final assembly and site preparation, combined with skills development in offsite manufacturing, brings economic benefits to communities beyond just housing provision.

Looking ahead

The levelling-up agenda and national planning policy both highlight the importance of building on brownfield first. But to turn ambition into action, we must adopt the right tools. Offsite construction offers a unique opportunity to tackle brownfield challenges head-on — with speed, flexibility, and environmental performance built in from day one.

By marrying digital innovation with precision manufacturing, we can unlock the full potential of the UK’s brownfield land, creating the homes and communities of tomorrow without sacrificing the green spaces we all depend on.

Now is the time to think differently about how we build — and where.

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