Newly,Built,Homes,In,A,Residential,Estate,In,England. - image provided by University of Salford

New research from the University of Salford has uncovered the UK’s housebuilding sector is struggling to meet supply chain. 

The research that comes from HIVEE (Housebuilding Innovations in Volume, Environment and Efficiency) is calling for a new strategic direction.

The researchers at the university will be hosting an event for those interested in the housebuilding sector to gain insight on the future of the industry.

The event will host leading housebuilder, Barratt Homes, and sustainable heating and cooling solutions provider, Daikin.

With the leading brands hoping to insight on a range of areas impacting the industry, including the evolution of the role of the architect, opportunities to adopt new emerging technologies for design.

Aerial drone shot - provided by University of Salford
Aerial drone shot – provided by University of Salford

The event will hope to demonstrate how new sustainability research could shape the future of environmental policy.

Aaron Robertson, Lecturer in Supply Chain, Logistics and Project management, plus Research Lead for HIVEE at the University said: “The housebuilding sector is in essential need of a new strategic direction.

“It’s widely reported that the construction sector is facing significant impact due to a burgeoning skills shortage.

“Fewer people are opting for this career route and there’s been a sharp decline in the number of apprentices entering the sector.”

This has proved to be the case, with the Department of Education sharing that there has been a steep decline of 26,080 new starters across the country in  construction, planning and built environment apprenticeships from the previous year.

As Aaron continued: “With a loss of construction skills and limits on traditional building materials, it’s essential the sector progresses current practices if it’s to be resilient.”

This idea was also reinstalled by Iain Bevan at Daikin UK who also wants to look at a more sustainable and environmental practices, he said: “The focus on sustainability is not only shaping environmental policies but also driving innovation in our industry.”

He continued: “We are here to help navigate this change, ensuring that our technologies contribute to a healthier planet and a sustainable future for all.”

And with the demand for housing increasing, Aaron was quick to add that technology and sustainability must keep up, he added: “If the housebuilding sector is to meet growing demand and the ambitious targets it’s been set to help tackle the UK’s housing crisis.

“It’s essential new technologies and methods are adopted, and the digital transformation of the sector is accelerated at rapid pace.”

The full day event will take place in 23 October, and will offer the opportunity for anyone to come and discover how the housebuilding can meet the supply challenges and lead new strategic direction.

To find out more on the free event information can be found here 

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