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Gilberts top of the class with new eco solution

Britain’s leading independent air movement specialist Gilberts is leading the class in helping deliver net zero educational and commercial buildings by 2050.

The company’s Mistrale Fusion Deo MFS-HR hybrid ventilation with heat recovery system has exceeded sales targets by more than 250% since its launch 18 months ago. In that time, it has also been short-listed for two top industry awards.

Demand for the product is due to its outstanding performance compared to alternatives- offering 65% heat recovery as standard! The high levels of heat recovery mean that it reduces the overall construction and running costs for the building and opens potential for the building to be carbon negative.

Independent data reveals that Gilberts MFS-HR delivers energy savings of up to 20%. It can reduce solar panel and/or heat pump required output by 7%. It achieves air leakage below 3m/3ph/m2. Its U value is below 1.0W/m2/°C. Further, it is BB101 ventilation, BB93 acoustic and TM52 comfort compliant. 

British designed, engineered and manufactured, MFS-HR features adjustable flow and noise rates/levels to optimise suitability for specific classroom requirements. Integral CO2 monitoring and controls guarantee compliant indoor air quality in line with Department for Education guidelines. 

Gilberts’ MFS-HR’s attraction to specifiers results from more than its performance.

Considerate design means MFS-HR is easy to install/attach to the through-façade air intake/extract louvres. MFS-HR can function as a stand-alone unit or whole zone/whole building system, ducted or fitted above ceilings. With optional heating/cooling, MFS-HR removes the need for supplementary plant, further positively impacting capital equipment and running costs. 

“Our reputation over the past 60+ years has been built on innovation, quality and giving the market what it wants and needs,” says Ian Rogers, Gilberts Sales Director. “We knew Mistrale Fusion Deo MFS-HR was ahead of the game when we first began developing the concept. Its success has surpassed our expectations, demonstrating British manufacturing is still world class.”

Details of Gilberts’ Mistrale Fusion Deo MFS-HR system can be found @ 

https://gilbertsblackpool.com/natural-ventilation-solutions/hybrid-recovery/

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Family Hub Choses Style Again for Folding Partitioning Wall

Christchurch Family Hub provides essential, early support for local families. In 2003, Style installed a folding wall with pass-door to enable the Hub to divide its main activity and family room into two separate areas, as and when needed.

Twenty-two years on and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council again contacted Style, this time to replace the old wall with a modern system with enhanced operation and improved acoustics. 

Finished in a beech laminate, the new Dorma Huppe Variflex moveable wall is smooth and lightweight to manoeuvre, allowing the space to be easily opened up, or divided into two rooms, many times a day. If preferred, the dividing wall can be left in place for extended periods thanks to an integrated pass-door and, with a 49dB acoustic rating, activities can comfortably take place either side of the wall undisturbed.

“The original wall at the Christchurch Family Hub lasted over two decades, with regular servicing and maintenance from our after-care support team,” said Michael Porter, Style’s group managing director. 

“The fact that it continued to deliver smooth operation for such a long time is testimony to the quality of the original installation and also to the expertise of our technicians.”

Style’s after-care service team offers tailored maintenance plans to suit each customer’s unique site requirements, from one-off visits to fixed annual contracts. Fully accredited and experts in health and safety compliance, Style engineers are trained to work on all moveable walls, including automatic and semi-automatic systems. 

The Variflex system installed the Christchurch Family Hub brings improved acoustics and the latest operational features. One such benefit that is particularly relevant for this busy activity centre, is that the Variflex panels are manufactured separately to frame. 

This means that the individual panel linings can be easily changed if one should become scuffed or damaged, saving a considerable amount of money compared to replacing the entire wall.

www.style-partitions.co.uk

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A CLEAR UPGRADE FOR AMC HOSPITAL WITH PYROGUARD’S FIRE SAFETY GLASS

AMC Hospital, which is the largest healthcare facility in the Netherlands, has undergone a major renovation, which has modernised the 1,000-bed facility with a clear focus on enhancing the safety and well-being of staff and patients. 

At the heart of the transformation was the replacement of over 10,000 m² of out-dated wired glass, bringing the hospital in line with the highest industry standards, while achieving a state-of-the-art, contemporary aesthetic.

As part of the renovation, the decision was made to replace all existing wired safety glass with new, transparent glazing solutions from fire safety glass manufacturer Pyroguard, to ensure that the hospital adhered to current industry standards. This upgrade also addressed long-standing challenges with maintaining accurate product data records for the glass partitions and doors, many of which had been extended or replaced over the years without clear traceability. By upgrading the glass throughout the facility, AMC Hospital not only enhanced its aesthetic appeal and improved safety standards but also ensured data consistency across the entire site.

MedicomZes, a specialist in hospital construction and renovations, was entrusted with overseeing the project, while Glasdesign were appointed to fabricate and install the glazing systems. Given the scale and complexity of the project – set within a sensitive healthcare environment – MedicomZes approached Pyroguard as a trusted manufacturer with the capability of providing the required quantities of fire-resistant glass, whilst also meeting the hospital’s stringent safety, design and performance standards.

Stefan van Gerven, Pyroguard’s Regional Sales Director, said: “During initial discussions, concerns arose about the compatibility of the existing timber frames with the new fire safety glass and the corresponding load requirements. We collaborated closely with Peutz, a specialist consultant, to test the existing frames as part of a complete system. This is where our extensive library of technical data proved instrumental, as we were able to confirm that the original timber could be retained, with the findings forming a key part of the renovation plans.

“Considering the scale of the project and the volume of glass required, we also recommended a sampling exercise to evaluate the potential glass types that could meet the specified criteria. This process allowed both the architect and building management team to make a more informed decision. An additional consideration for the architect was the need for a fire safety glass solution that would enhance privacy for both patients and staff, through the use of a satin finish.” 

Following the sampling exercise, Pyroguard Rapide (Impact 7mm and Impact Satin) was specified for the internal partitions throughout the hospital, incorporating both clear and satin fire safety glass. Pyroguard Protect (Pyroguard T EW30 and T EI30) was installed in areas requiring larger, bespoke pane sizes, delivering exceptional fire protection while aligning with the architect’s vision for aesthetic design.

Peter Blankers, Projectmanager at MedicomZes added: “Working with Pyroguard has been instrumental in ensuring we met the hospital’s safety and aesthetic goals. Their technical support and ability to address the specific challenges of the healthcare environment were invaluable. The final result not only enhances the safety of the building but also contributes to a modern and welcoming environment for patients and staff.”

Throughout the project, it was crucial that the building remained operational to minimise disruptions to patients and staff. Glasdesign successfully completed what is only the first phase of the project on time, with the project scheduled for full completion in a few years. 

For more information about Pyroguard, please visit www.pyroguard.eu

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Getting the specification right with thermal break installations

For many years, structural thermal breaks were a largely overlooked component in building design. But as the industry pivots towards more sustainable construction in line with Net Zero goals, thermal breaks have stepped into the spotlight, particularly for their ability to boost energy efficiency by reducing heat loss at connection points.

Despite their rise in recognition, there are still crucial considerations that remain widely misunderstood – and the reason? It’s down to the assumption that higher compressive strength always equals a better product in construction. Paul Beech, General Manager of thermal break specialists, Armatherm™, discusses the importance of full and proper research when it comes to specifying building materials. 

A thermal break essentially has two key jobs – reduce heat transfer while maintaining structural support. That balance is more complex than simply opting for the strongest material available. In fact, when it comes to insulating performance, higher strength materials often come with a compromise: greater density and in turn, a lower R value.

This is especially relevant when insulating structural connections like balcony supports, column bases or roof beams. These are areas where moment forces and compression are in constant play, and a correctly specified thermal break will take into account the load requirements of the application, without unnecessarily sacrificing insulation performance.

Taking a closer look at column bases, for instance. These are areas that don’t always require high compressive capacity but do require excellent thermal resistance. In these cases, over-specifying the strength can result in a denser product that absorbs more energy.

Every building element has its own unique load-bearing requirements. Balcony connections are one example where compressive and tensile forces are significant and unavoidable, and require high compressive strength as seen in the Armatherm™ FRR range. In these cases, selecting a thermal break with the right compressive strength is essential to ensure both safety and insulation.

However, there are less demanding areas, such as steel columns passing through a concrete floor where thermal breaks with a lower compressive strength may perform better. These materials often have minimal creep under load and do not absorb moisture, which helps to maintain structural stability while offering excellent thermal insulation.

This is where thoughtful specification comes into play. A one-size-fits-all mindset doesn’t serve the performance or sustainability goals of a project and it’s essential to find that balance, strong enough for the structural need yet not so strong that you risk losing insulation efficiency.

Equally important is ensuring that the product you specify delivers on its claims. With sustainability being such a high priority in today’s construction landscape, manufacturers know that marketing terms like “eco” and “green” carry weight.

There are some thermal break products on the market, such as girts, which are promoted as environmentally friendly, but contain embedded steel elements that compromise their insulating performance. While they may technically meet load requirements, their conductive components can significantly reduce energy efficiency, ultimately working against the project’s goals.

Without robust testing data or third-party validation, these claims can be misleading. That’s why it’s critical to dig deeper and ask questions. Compare not just R values and strength ratings, but also composition, test history and long-term performance data. Working with a team like Armatherm™ can help with this, collaborating to find the best product for the job. 

As thermal breaks become standard in modern building design, the duty falls on specifiers to look beyond surface-level metrics. It’s not enough to choose the most robust or the most advertised product. Performance, longevity and verified sustainability all matter, especially when regulation, public interest and scrutiny around energy use are only intensifying.

Rather than treating thermal breaks as a material to be checked off a tick list during a project, it’s time to start considering them as a key contributor to the building’s overall performance and make use of technical resources, choosing suppliers who can back up their claims and work as an extension of your team. 

With so many factors to consider when specifying thermal breaks, from compressive strength to long-term performance and sustainability, it’s essential to work with a supplier who understands the bigger picture. Armatherm™ has spent years developing structural thermal break solutions that strike the right balance between strength and insulation performance, helping to reduce thermal bridging without compromising structural integrity. The expert team is always on hand to support architects, specifiers and engineers in selecting the most appropriate product for each individual application. Whether you’re working on a high-load structural connection or a detail that demands precision thermal isolation, Armatherm™ can help you get it right.

https://www.armatherm.co.uk/

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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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