This report outlines the findings of research with contractors and developers involved with year three (2019 to 2020) of the Innovative Housing Programme.
This is the latest release in the series: Innovative Housing Programme: lessons learnt
The Innovative Housing Programme (IHP) was introduced to support the development of innovative approaches to delivering housing in Wales.
This report is the third evaluation of the lessons learnt from the Innovative Housing Programme. The report focuses on Year Three (2019 to 2020).
This report focuses on the construction, planning application processes. The aim is to understand the experiences of Registered Social Landlords, Local Housing Authorities, developers and contractors.
Main findings
Construction process
Strong collaboration between developers and contractors supports innovative housing delivery. Experienced project managers and robust data collection are key. Businesses are investing in net-zero skills and training, helping close the construction skills gap despite ongoing workforce shortages.
Projects using Modern Methods of Construction reported faster timelines and reduced waste compared to traditional building approaches. Local perceptions of Modern Methods of Construction were positive due to reduced dust and noise during development.
Accessing innovative technologies caused little or no delay. Most delays were linked to the coronavirus pandemic, and few were severe.
Early engagement was critical for persuading Local Authorities and stakeholders that innovations were viable and practical.
Experimentation was important for trialling new approaches. Year Three provided real-time learning opportunities for the housing sector.
Around half of participants said innovative methods are now mainstreamed. Some innovations from Year Three became their “new normal.”
Planning process
The planning process in Year Three was similar to general planning in Wales. Challenges mainly involved approvals from other authorities, such as Local Highways Authorities.
Application process
Most developers found the Year Three application process straightforward. Bidding became easier with each year of Programme participation.
Registered Social Landlords faced barriers like unclear feedback and long timelines, but welcomed the Programme’s cost flexibility.
Reports
Report , file type: PDF, file size: 547 KB
Summary , HTML
Contact
Housing Research Team
Rydym yn croesawu gohebiaeth yn Gymraeg / We welcome correspondence in Welsh.
Media
Telephone:
0300 025 8099
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