Long-standing themes and new developments in offsite construction: the case of UK housing. Issue 6 (20th August 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, Ruoheng; Zhou, Alexander S J; Tahmasebi, Saeed; Whyte, Jennifer
• Is Part Of: Proceedings of ICE. Volume 172:Issue 6(2019)
• Page Start: 29
• Page End: 35
• Publication Date: 2019-08-20
• Subjects: buildings, structure & design -- history -- public policy; Civil engineering -- Periodicals; 624
• DOI: 10.1680/jcien.19.00011
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0965-089X

Abstract

Abstract : This paper reviews the evolution of offsite construction methods in UK housing over the past 15 years and puts this in an international context. Long-standing themes include targets for construction productivity, challenges of labour shortages and skills, desire to learn across sectors and a need to develop new business models. Newer developments include research and development funding through the UK government's 'transforming construction' initiative, higher pre-manufactured value and increased digitisation. The paper concludes with recommendations for practice, policy and research.