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NHF-backed MMC alliance appoints ZED PODS to offsite framework


Building Better, the National Housing Federation-supported group of housing associations and councils working to increase the use of modern methods of construction (MMC), has added a new manufacturer to its MMC Category 1 framework.

Building Better and Procurement for Housing (PfH) have signed up ZED PODS to their volumetric framework, which is worth up to £400m over four years. Social housing organisations can procure pre-manufactured 3D construction systems for both houses and apartments from ZED PODS through the deal.

ZEDPODS have been appointed to the framework on a direct award basis so housing associations and local authorities won’t need to go through any additional tender process to procure from them. Streamlining MMC contracting in this way saves around £15,000 in procurement costs for each housing organisation.

The framework also enables very early engagement with ZED PODS, in a compliant way. When social housing organisations meet with manufacturers right at the start of a project and tap into their design experience to create plans that are right for all parties, this commonly leads to more successful schemes.

Founded in 2016, ZED PODS design and build zero-operational-carbon social housing and specialise in delivering turnkey housing solutions using volumetric MMC. ZED PODS’ build system can be used on traditional sites and also constrained brownfield locations such as derelict garage sites, carparks, and flood zones.

ZED PODS have delivered award-winning housing schemes for both local authorities and housing associations. They are presently working with 28 public sector organisations to plan and design MMC schemes, and they are currently onsite building zero-operational-carbon social homes in Sheffield, Ashford, Bristol, and across Wales and Devon.

All MMC homes procured under the Building Better framework take a fabric-first approach (prioritising insulation ahead of add-ons like solar panels), they meet nationally described space standards (NDSS) and have the option to be wheelchair accessible. They are certified by the Buildoffsite Property Assurance Scheme (BOPAS) and assessed and accepted by building warranty provider ICW Insurance Services.

Tony Woods, Technical Manager for Construction & Sustainability at Procurement for Housing (PfH) said: “The quality of ZED PODS’ homes really set them apart in the tender process, as well as their management team and financial position. They manufacture high performance, low carbon houses and flats that exceed the proposed Future Home Standards and the Welsh Development Quality Requirements 2021. But it was also the way they involve residents that impressed us. ZED PODS take a proactive approach to engaging early with local communities ahead of construction on site.

Tom Northway, Chairman of ZED PODS, said: “​We are delighted to have been selected for the Building Better framework and look forward to working with the team and its members to deliver our net zero carbon housing solutions.”

In addition to the MMC Category 1 framework, Building Better and PfH also run a dynamic purchasing system (DPS) for MMC Category 2 construction systems. Through this DPS, social housing organisations can procure 2D panelised systems, assembled on-site, from over 20 pre-approved manufacturers.

 

CLICK HERE for further information about Building Better’s MMC Category 1 framework

 

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Wernick Group celebrates 90 years of business

Wernick Group proudly announces its 90th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the company’s rich history of delivering innovative and sustainable modular solutions.

The Wernick Group of companies has a proud legacy stretching back to 1934, growing from a humble maker of poultry crates to becoming Britain’s largest family-owned provider of portable and modular buildings, and off-grid power solutions.

Since its founding, the business has been at the forefront of the modular building industry. Whilst maintaining an enduring status as a family-owned and run business over the past nine decades, Wernick continues its mission to improve people’s lives through the provision of sustainable buildings and infrastructure.

CEO Jonathan Wernick, commented, “Samuel Wernick, my great-grandfather, started his working life as a poultry dealer. He manufactured wooden crates to transport the chickens which led him to start manufacturing as a commercial enterprise. It was Sam’s ability to adapt to the opportunity of manufacturing these crates that led to the birth of the Wernick Group a few years later. This ability to adapt quickly to opportunities remains one of the key strengths of the Wernick Group 90 years later. He would be immensely proud of everything the company has achieved over that time.

Today, the Wernick Group consists of six distinct businesses: Wernick Buildings, Wernick Hire, Wernick Refurbished Buildings, Wernick Events, Wernick AVDanzer, and Wernick Power Solutions. Each company within the group holds focal importance in delivering comprehensive and tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

The last decade, in particular, has seen a vigorous expansion through a combination of shrewd acquisitions and organic growth. The Wernick Group currently has forty operating centres throughout the UK, working across both the public and private sectors. The Group of companies combine to offer the sale and hire of permanent and temporary modular buildings, site accommodation, and off-grid power solutions.

Wernick Group’s Chairman David Wernick commented, “We are a 4th generation company with my son Jonathan running the Group as CEO. We take great pride in what we’ve achieved over the last 90 years and are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our employees during this period.”

www.wernick.co.uk

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North America modular construction market poised for steady growth, projected to reach US$ 42.2 billion by 2032

The North America modular construction sector is experiencing a significant upsurge, with the market size hitting US$ 27.3 billion in the year 2023. Forecasts indicate a robust continuation of this trend, with an anticipated climb to a market size of US$ 42.2 billion by the year 2032. This projection corresponds to a compounded annual growth rate of 5.0% from 2023 to 2032. This expansion signifies the industry’s growing commitment to sustainable construction practices and its response to the increasing demand for rapid, cost-efficient building solutions.

The substantial growth can chiefly be attributed to the augmented demand for prefabricated building structures in North America, coupled with the sector’s intent to diminish construction time and costs. The market’s upward momentum is further supported by the surge in infrastructure projects, encompassing healthcare, corporate offices, residential complexes, and educational institutions.

Additionally, heightened environmental concerns regarding the carbon emissions associated with traditional construction are propelling regional interest towards modular construction methods. Government initiatives across the United States and Canada that encourage the erection of green buildings have also played a pivotal role in the market’s growth. Moreover, the advent of advanced technology integrations, such as 3D printing and Building Information Modeling (BIM), is predicted to further amplify the market’s prospects.

Impact of COVID-19 on the modular construction sector

Despite healthy growth indicators, the modular construction market faced setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Measures to curtail the virus’ spread, such as lockdowns and stay-at-home orders, prompted the postponement of various construction projects, creating disruptions in supply chains and temporary facility shutdowns, all of which impacted market performance.

Key market segmentation

The market is segmented into distinct divisions, including Permanent Modular Construction (PMC) and Relocatable Buildings (RB). Additional segments comprise various sectors, such as public, residential, and commercial, alongside a breakdown by construction material, with categories encompassing wood, concrete, and steel, among others. Geographically, the market encapsulates profound analysis at both regional and country levels, with the United States and Canada being central areas of focus within the North American market.

Industry competitive landscape

The competitive dynamics of the industry have been carefully assessed, showcasing key players who are contributing to the market’s development and expansion. These industry leaders are fostering innovation and utilizing strategic initiatives to strengthen their market presence, ultimately serving a diverse range of construction needs in the modular construction space.

Looking forward

As the North America modular construction market paves the path toward a more sustainable and efficient future, it continues to offer substantial opportunities for players within the industry and potential entrants, with a steady growth rate that signals enduring demand for modular construction solutions across North America.

Source: Yahoo! Finance

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Farnham mayor opens new eco-friendly dining hall at Barfield Prep School

Barfield Prep School welcomed a visit by the mayor of Farnham, Cllr Alan Earwaker, to open its new dining hall on Monday, April 22. Sustainable construction firm TG Escapes designed and built the new hall using modular construction methods in just four months, allowing children to continue their education.

The bespoke timber building offers panoramic views across the school’s grounds and plenty of natural light through its floor-to-ceiling windows.

It is a low energy ‘A’ rated building with solar panels on the roof, air source heat pumps, active ventilation and heat recovery, and LED lighting.

It boasts a commercial kitchen with cold and dry stores, pot wash area, office, toilet, plant room and a veranda overlooking the headteacher’s lawn.

Andy Boyle, Barfield headmaster, said: “Thanks to TG Escapes we now have a beautifully designed eco-friendly functional building for everyone at the school to enjoy and benefit from.”

Source: Farnham Herald

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Make UK Modular responds to Built Environment Committee letter

Make UK Modular has issued a response to the Built Environment Committee’s letter to the Secretary of State.

“This report is heartening and recognises the important role that Category 1 modular is already playing in solving Britain’s homes crisis, with global leading projects currently delivering thousands of homes. The Committee is right to point to a need for greater clarity around policy which, if it is got right, will ensure a stimulated market at a critical time for homeowners and renters alike. Unblocking the delivery of the 300,000 homes our country needs every year is key, and Category 1 modular can help deliver affordable homes which are economic to run in an ever-tightening labour market,” said Daniel Paterson, director of government affairs, Make UK Modular.

He added: “The current Future Homes Standard consultation aims to make sure all new homes are built to a higher standard from 2025. Make UK Modular encourages the government to use this as an opportunity to listen to innovators in the construction sector on the importance of high fabric standards as a critically important method of increasing sustainability in our future homes.”

“By doing so, the Government can develop a solid long-term strategy prioritising the most innovative forms of building that are already delivering tangible value for the UK while ensuring that innovators within industry do not face penalties for challenging outdated methods of working,” he concluded.

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MMC: ‘The only Realistic way to Resolve the Housing Crisis’

We have observed a trend of more projects being carried out either wholly or using some element of off-site fabrication of modular buildings or other modern methods of construction. Some commentators have suggested they expect the market for modular buildings to grow in excess of 6% year on year.

It is easy to see why it is proving popular and this approach and utilising modern techniques and processes can enhance efficiency, quality and sustainability.

We anticipate this trend will continue into and throughout 2024 for a number of reasons:

  • The comparative speed with which modular buildings are normally carried could assist in reducing both parties’ exposure to the risk of high levels of inflation.
  • Modular buildings will likely provide the most cost effective and efficient long-term solution to the RAAC crisis.
  • The use of modular buildings is considered a more sustainable approach to building.
  • Modular residential buildings are seen by many as the only realistic way to resolve the housing crisis and it may be particularly relevant in an election year or a year in which a new government comes into power.

Modular building contractors: Employer considerations

In terms of the effect this could have from a legal perspective, a significant increase in popularity for modular buildings could see demand outpacing supply and lead to stock issues and more projects falling into delay.

As modular building companies appear more susceptible to cash flow issues and external economic forces, a potentially volatile economic climate may see more modular building companies cease trading.

It is therefore as important as ever for employers to ensure that they are adequately protected in the event that their modular building contractor ceases trading after it has paid for pre-fabricated buildings that are stored off site.

Employers will want to ensure vesting certificates and, if appropriate and available, bonds are in place to offer protection in the event of contractor insolvency.

One of the downsides of modular construction is that if a defect is caused during the construction process in the factory, it is likely that the same defect could be repeated on every single property produced by that factory using the same methods.

Although the JCT is releasing a new suite of contracts it is not anticipated that this will include a new specific contract for modular buildings or any specific clauses in a nod to modern methods of construction.

We understand the JCT feel that their current suite of contracts already facilitates modern methods of construction and it is therefore unlikely the new suite will depart too greatly with concessions for modern methods of construction.

We also anticipate that the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) will continue to take steps to standardise modular buildings and other modern methods of construction through their ongoing ‘Modern Methods of Construction Standardisation Research and Kit of Parts’ project to develop an open-source kit of parts that will encourage the uptake of Modern Methods of Construction.

We understand the DLUHC feels standardisation is necessary to speed up research and integrate modern methods of construction deeper into the industry, believing that a collective move towards standardisation and learning collectively will speed up research, speed up construction programmes and allow us to harness the potential of modern methods of construction quicker.

This view is not held by everyone however, with at least one major firm expressing extreme concern that the move towards standardisation will greatly reduce the potential for innovation.

Source: Lexology

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New Scottish Homes ‘cutting-edge and environmentally-friendly’

NORTH Ayrshire Council’s newest housing development – built by modular construction specialist Connect Modular – has been officially opened by provost Anthea Dickson.

The new homes at Afton Court, Stevenston, replace former sheltered housing complexes in the town. The £1.34 million development, supported by £0.66 million of Scottish Government funding, has seen the creation of six new amenity bungalows built using ‘cutting-edge and environmentally-friendly’ techniques.

The homes were built in sections offsite by Ayrshire firm Connect Modular – part of the Wee House Group – before being assembled on site.

Councillor Tony Gurney, cabinet member for green environment and economy at North Ayrshire Council, said,

“This is a significant development for us in a number of ways. Not only will it provide wonderful new town centre homes for our residents, but it is also another step on the way to our ambitious target of building more than 1,600 new homes across North Ayrshire. We are more than halfway towards that target with almost 900 new homes completed.

“While all our new homes are built with the climate crisis in mind, the Afton Court development goes a step further and saw the developers, Connect Modular, employ their innovative approach which is mindful of the environment and cuts down on waste. The bungalows were built in a controlled factory environment using sustainable practices, helping to reduce waste and energy required.

“The modern, energy-efficient homes have enhanced building insulation, air-source heat pumps and solar photovoltaic panels. We’re extremely proud of this development and are delighted with the feedback we’ve received so far from tenants.”

Richard Reid, acting CEO at Connect Modular, added,

“We are delighted to have partnered with North Ayrshire Council in the design, construction, and delivery of these amenity bungalows at Afton Court, Stevenston. Our modular construction methods were instrumental in minimising disruption to the community that closely surrounds the compact urban infill site.

“Furthermore, with volatile weather conditions, we were able to bring programme stability through constructing modules in our protected environment, as well as the inherent quality enhancements associated with volumetric construction.”

All bungalows were constructed inside Connect Modular’s Ayrshire-based manufacturing facility with kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing and electrics all pre-fitted before the different sections were assembled on site.

Source: Project Scotland

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Modular Lego from Korea

A dormitory at a military facility, which was built utilizing the new system
Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology

 

Efficient construction system stacks self-contained modules like Legos

Erecting an entire building from scratch at the construction site can be time-consuming and expensive, which is why many companies look to factory-built prefabricated structures. A new technology takes that idea further, with prefab blocks that are stacked like Lego blocks.

The modular system was developed at the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, by a team led by Dr. Seok-Ho Lim and Dr. Joon-Soo Chung. It incorporates shipping-container-shaped “blocks” that serve as single rooms of a larger overall building.

Each of these blocks consists of two parts. There’s an infill module – which includes the inner walls, inner floor and ceiling – along with an open-topped “PC module,” which consists of two load-bearing exterior side walls and a load-bearing exterior floor.

Modules of both types are transported to the construction site, where a crane is used to lower the infill modules into their corresponding PC modules, thus forming the self-contained blocks. That same crane then hoists each of those blocks into place on a concrete pad, stacking them one on top of another as dictated by the building plan.

In a final step, a roof, stairs and block-connecting corridors are added to complete the structure. All told, the blocks account for 70 to 80% of the whole building.

Not only is the onsite assembly process reportedly much less time-consuming and labor-intensive than traditional building methods, it’s also claimed to generate less noise, dust and waste. Additionally, when the building is no longer needed, the individual blocks can be retrieved and used in other projects.

The Korean Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport recently announced its plans to use the system for the construction of rental houses within the Seoul metropolitan area and in new outlying towns.

“The developed modular construction method will offer effective solutions for addressing environmental issues in the construction industry and housing shortages,” said Dr. Lim. “This technology significantly reduces construction costs and diminishes the need for a large portion of onsite operations, resulting in shorter construction periods compared to conventional concrete construction methods.”

Source: New Atlas

 

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GERMANY: Porsche Consulting and ABB Robotics team up

Image: ABB Robotics  

Porsche Consulting and ABB Robotics team up in construction sector

Porsche Consulting has signed an agreement with ABB Robotics aimed at using innovative technology to improve the manufacturing process of modular housing.

In many countries around the world, the construction sector is struggling to meet the demand for new homes. This is not just due to regulations around meeting environmental performance, but also due to shortages of labour, challenges around supply chain and the sourcing of materials, and growing costs making projects less feasible.

In Germany for instance, the country is forecast to have housing supply shortages in 35 of its cities by 2030, while in the United Kingdom, most major cities already face an acute housing shortage according to government data.

Against this backdrop, builders are investing heavily in new ways of building homes, including modular construction methods and factory-based production (as opposed to building on sites).

 

This is where the partnership between Porsche Consulting and ABB Robotics comes in. Focused at the intersection of the two domains, the two companies believe their joint capabilities can improve the efficiency of housing manufacturing, while making the process safe and more sustainable.

“We think there is a clear opportunity to transform the way homes are built by automating the process of manufacturing modular components,” said Marc Segura, President of ABB Robotics. “Greater, more intelligent automation is the answer to widespread labor shortages, and this collaboration will boost productivity, allow greater customization, and enable more sustainable and efficient construction practices.”

 

Eberhard Weiblen, Chairman of Porsche Consulting, added: “In combining ABB’s leading robotic solutions and Porsche Consulting’s knowledge in planning and running state-of-the-art factories, we want to help transform the construction industry.”

“Highly automated factories for buildings can deliver higher quality and more affordable housing. Factories also provide a safer and more hospitable working environment, as construction workers account for around 30% of workplace injuries and are four times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident in comparison to other sectors.”

“Building in a factory setting also will yield green improvements through the reduction in material wastage,” Weiblen continued.

Originating in the automotive industry under the mantle of iconic luxury car brand Porsche, Porsche Consulting is a leading management and digital consulting firm that today works across sectors. The firm has offices in Germany, Italy, France, China, Brazil, and the United States.

Source: Consultancy eu

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Delivering MMC frameworks informed by real-time factory assessments

 

By Dean Fazackerley, Head of Technical Procurement, LHC Procurement Group

With the UK under pressure to deliver hundreds of thousands of new homes a year to address a chronic housing crisis, modern methods of construction (MMC) are increasingly recognised as a means to deliver quality housing at pace. Some reports indicate that MMC homes can be constructed at least 30% faster than traditional methods, and with up to a 25% reduction in costs.  MMC can also support the delivery of greener homes of a higher quality; components are less likely to be faulty because they are manufactured in controlled factory conditions, which can also lead to significant reductions in waste.

Despite this, the take-up of MMC has been modest owing to some trepidation within the sector. We believe this could be down to a misunderstanding of the barriers to entry into MMC, and complications with public sector procurement constraints. It can be seen as an expensive luxury, with many manufacturers working to their own designs, and complex to manage with new supply chains and stakeholders to work with. We have also heard the perception that public procurement constraints limit a local authority’s ability to develop the right relationships required for MMC.

However, through framework agreements, the contracting authorities can manage this process much more easily, with a single point of contact and access to technical expertise that aligns with all RIBA Plan of Work 2020 stages, from the initial stages through to design, construction, handover, and use.

Dedicated MMC frameworks

Earlier this year, our Modern Methods of Construction of New Homes (NH3) framework went live. It is the successor to NH2, which enabled £93.5m-worth of offsite homes projects with a total forecast value of £277m.
NH3 has been shaped by extensive engagement with housing contractors and manufacturers. It allows for a range of housing types, from low rise and medium/high rise, through to specialist accommodation such as care homes. The framework also provides for delivery of ‘room in the roof’ projects and adaptive pods.

Framework agreements like this allow relationships to flourish over a longer-term period and help set out an integrated supply chain. We see it as a vital tool to drive programmes for low-carbon, modern homes for housing associations and local authorities across the country

 

Quality assessments

Our commitment to becoming a Gold Standard framework provider means that as part of the development of NH3, we conducted an in-depth assessment of all potential suppliers.
This began with a questionnaire tailored depending on the workstream: 3D modular systems; 2D panelised systems; main contractors delivering MMC solutions; and groundworks and site preparation for MMC housing projects.

To evidence their capability to deliver MMC projects for the workstreams they had applied for, applicants to the framework were quizzed on everything from what training they provide staff with to how they demonstrate KPIs, and how they monitor customer feedback during projects. For consistency, two colleagues from our dedicated centre of technical excellence assessed each workstream.  Following this, we spent a day on site with each manufacturer to conduct in-depth factory assessments to assess their factory process.  Again, applicants were scored for the following:

Quality of products

 

Including structure, cladding, finish, and M&E installation, throughout the construction process from goods in down the production line to storage and dispatch.

Pre-manufactured value – what level of automation was used throughout.  Environmental and waste management – what measures were taken to minimise environmental impact and waste management. For example, how do they reduce energy usage on premises in terms of heating and lighting? How do they manage water usage during manufacturing and in the offices? Which materials are they using in manufacturing? And are there any EV charging points available to use?

Process management

 

We observed the quality control process for elements down the production lines, how products are marked up on the production line, the worksheets for products, and inspection and sign-off at each stage.   Quality of temporary weather protection during storage at the factory/on site and transportation.  Scores from the questionnaires and factory assessments were added together to calculate a final score, and those who scored the highest were awarded the highest allotted award.

 

Appetite for offsite

One thing that was evident during the assessment process was the sheer passion among industry professionals who want to champion and promote MMC. Fortunately, we are seeing local authorities beginning to look past the barriers to entry to see the value MMC can bring; our NH2 framework – the successor to NH3 – led to a pipeline of nearly 5,000 MMC homes across 133 projects. The government’s push towards MMC in its policies – especially the Affordable Homes Programme – should see this figure increase further.

 

CLICK HERE to find out more about LHC and its NH3 framework

 

 

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