Build to Rent – modular solutions for the future of urban housing

Build to Rent is a growing trend in the UK housing market and this breakfast talk explores both the challenges developers face and the potential role of modular timber construction in the sector.

In 2018 the British Property Federation estimated there were around 120,000 Build to Rent units already built, under construction or in planning across the UK; a 30% increase over the previous year. These rent-only residential schemes are often owned by institutional investors, who require a long-term rental growth, and are managed by specialist operators. However, public sector organisations such as housing associations and local authorities are also entering the market. Their aim is to help relieve the housing shortage in their area while also generating revenue to fund further housing developments.

The event discussed challenges faced by developers in the Build to Rent sector, examine opportunities for modular construction and ask how the Build to Rent market is shaping up over the coming years. Who are the movers & shakers? Which clientele are we building for? How suitable are engineered timber solutions from a commercial, technical and environmental point of view and in the light of the most recent legislation?

Programme:

8.30am          Registration and networking with a light breakfast

9.00am          Welcome and introduction by Christiane Lellig, Wood For Good

9.10am          Keynote presentation: The BTR market in the UK by Nick Whitten, Jones Lang LaSalle

9.30am          Panel debate:

- Nick Whitten, Jones Lang LaSalle

- Patrick Usborne, dRMM

- Oliver Booth, Gardiner & Theobald

- Mary Hurst, First Homes

10.15am        Coffee/Tea and networking

11.00am        End

This event is part of the Forest of Fabrication exhibition and events programme, curated by the Building Centre exhibitions team and dRMM, and supported by The Built Environment Trust. 

We would like to thank the headline sponsors of Forest of Fabrication Timber Trade Federation, Wood Campus and Wood For Good. Supported by American Hardwood Export Council, B&K Structures, Binderholz, Eurban, James Latham, KLH UK,  Martinsons, Södra, Stora Enso and Wiehag.