We’re no strangers to helping our clients tackle big industry topics, and last week we had the pleasure of doing just that at a compelling roundtable for Polypipe Building Products as part of our retained PR work with the built environment specialists.
What we did
The event saw us bring together 12 experts from across the built environment sector, and key members of the Polypipe Building Products team, to discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities in housing regulations.
We hosted the event to coincide with London Build Expo, the UK’s largest construction trade show held at Olympia, as a considerable number of built environment professionals descended on the capital for the popular exhibition.
Chaired by Anna Clarke, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at The Housing Forum, the session delved into critical issues facing the industry, from housing targets and housing regulations changes to Net Zero ambitions.
What was the result?
For two hours, the group of architects, specifiers, contractors, and housebuilders, shared their experiences and perspectives on the current state of the industry, as well as their hopes for the future.
The session was the first-of-its-kind for the client who was able to contribute to the flowing discussion which encouraged lived experiences and insights from the participants, as well as aspirations and ambitions from the future.
Here are some outtakes from what was a stand-out session.
How ambitious are the government’s new housing targets?
The Labour government’s pledge to deliver 1.5 million homes sparked optimism in the room, but the industry leaders also expressed caution. Funding remains a persistent hurdle as does inflation and high interest rates. While a greater focus on social housing was welcomed, attendees agreed that tackling this target would require significant investment, innovation, and collaboration.
Overcoming the skills shortage
The sector, like many others, faces a critical skills gap. Insufficient training opportunities and low apprenticeship wages were highlighted as barriers to attracting young talent. This is compounded by a shortage of tutors with practical experience. Increasing wages for young people in line with the living wage and incentivising apprenticeships beyond money were seen as essential steps to build a sustainable workforce fit for the future.
Efficiency through innovation
Prefabrication and modular design emerged as promising solutions to accelerate housing delivery while enhancing quality and sustainability. Building offsite improves working conditions and is commonplace in colder Nordic countries. These approaches could also help draw new talent by improving the industry’s working environment.
Reeling at regulation landscape?
The introduction of the Building Safety Act, Awaab’s Law, and the Future Homes Standard has set high expectations for the industry. However, with overlapping demands has left firms feeling the strain of compliance. The group was optimistic about improving the health and safety of the industry.
Regulations in reality are a balancing act
Attendees acknowledged the importance of safety and quality but noted that rapid regulatory changes can slow progress, adding administrative burdens and creating nervousness due to a lack of precedent. Collaborative discussions with Housing Associations and Local Authorities were called for to create a united approach to compliance in the future.
Innovative design impact
The conversation also explored how new regulation will shape design. While it promotes higher standards, it can stifle creativity and increase development costs. In time, architects will innovate around the new rules and we’ll see new norms in house design and build.
The focus of Net Zero regulations
With building regulations increasingly focused on sustainability, the industry is grappling with the dual challenge of reducing carbon emissions and adapting to stricter restrictions.
Making material choices
Current legislation limits the use of materials like timber, pushing firms toward less sustainable options. Attendees championed modular design as a way to incorporate greener materials efficiently.
Energy transition triumph
Reducing energy demand was emphasized as a priority alongside decarbonising the grid. However, the national infrastructure is not yet ready for the shift to technologies like heat pumps and electric vehicle charging at every home. There’s also a significant job to do to educate consumers on the benefits and best use of these new technologies. It’s a critical component for driving adoption and proper use of energy-efficient technologies.
Looking ahead to a greener and safer future
Despite the challenges, the panel expressed optimism about the future of the sector. Innovation and creativity are thriving as the industry adapts to new regulations, and consumer awareness is creating demand for sustainable solutions.
What’s next?
It is clear that the housing industry is at a crossroads, however with the right balance of housing regulation, innovation, and investment, there is an opportunity for true transformation for the built environment sector.
The roundtable was a great platform for candid and solutions-focused discussions. Refresh was proud to organise this conversation to put Polypipe Building Products and its team at the heart of conversation at such a pivotal time for the sector.
We will take the learnings and conversations from this event and produce a series of through leadership content, and social media content which can be shared through the client’s paid, earned, shared and owned channels.
Through our joint work, Polypipe Building Products can raise its profile among influential stakeholders in the sector and support its partners with sustainable, compliant, and innovative solutions.
Want to learn more about how Refresh can help raise your brand’s profile among your target audience? Contact us via the webform.