Systemised Offsite Manufactured Timber Dwelling Typologies from UK Forestry Supply Chains, Enabling a Transition to Nearly Zero Carbon Homes in Wales – An Overview

Abstract

This paper discusses a Knowledge Economy Skills Scholarship two (KESS2) doctoral project co-funded in collaboration with Woodknowledge Wales, which received funding in 2018. In addition, an overview of the Home Grown Homes project is also discussed that is spearheading the use of Welsh timber in construction, undertaken by the four organisations authoring this paper – for Powys County Council. Case studies for the KESS2 project are from the HGH project. Context to the UK need to drive efficiencies in housing supply and also performance with the current and future skills shortages in construction and increase offsite manufacturing (OSM) is discussed. In addition, the need to build high quality, high performance and healthy homes for occupants is also discussed. The Welsh Government’s Innovative Housing Programme introduced in 2017 is helping to massively incentivise the shift to OSM in Wales. The move to OSM and increased systemisation is requiring a profound re-think of how the UK conceives and delivers housing. This PhD explores the architectural technology and manufacturing detailing of the building fabric through the use of UK grown timber, which has challenges; the testing of these typologies during construction and manufacturing for thermal, acoustic and fire (TaF) performance; and then a post occupancy evaluation programme will be implemented to assess impacts upon occupant health and wellbeing. The methodology and the expected outcomes for the timber supply chain in Wales and also the housing markets in Wales are also discussed. This paper will be useful for academics, architects, building contractors, housing developers and financial institutions and government agencies evaluating Welsh timber as a construction material.