Mr. Se?n Armstrong:

The greater the scale, the greater the efficiency that can be achieved. It is easier for contractors to work in a single location than in multiple ones. The greater the scale, the more repeatability and the quicker this can be achieved. The challenge is in bringing local authority and private dwellings into a single project.

Regarding technologies, using modern methods of construction is a key Government policy. We are using the UK's definition of “modern methods of construction”, which has seven subcategories, including: modular units; panelised units; mass-engineered timber, namely, cross-laminated timber, CLT; innovative on-site construction techniques, for example, insulated concrete formwork; technology like 3D printing; and other innovative techniques, for example, hempcrete. The Government has established the Construct Innovate research centre, which is available for carrying out research and supporting initiatives. From a Housing for All perspective, we want to apply technologies that are fit for their intended use in the conditions in which they are to be used, comply with all parts of the building regulations, and have a 60-year durability. It is key that the social housing we are delivering meets all performance requirements under the building regulations. We need to develop innovative technologies to the stage they can demonstrate compliance with all parts of the building regulations and can be commercialised and rolled out on a commercial scale. We need to use every technology available to us to address the Housing for All and climate action challenges before us.