Quantifying the benefits of off-site construction

With the appointment of University of Cambridge as our project research contractor to be formalised shortly, this CIRIA project is set to take the adoption of off-site to new levels by developing a consistent methodology for valuing its benefits using quantifiable data. Clear demonstrable benefits to the client and end user are needed to drive change, and allow clients to understand the risks, the benefits and make informed decisions.

The Government has long set out its strategy for change in Construction 2025 (2013). The 2017 autumn budget  announcement of a construction sector deal included ‘a presumption in favour of offsite construction by 2019 across suitable capital programmes, where it represents best value for money.' 

The House of Lords Science and Technology Committee July 2018 report: Off-site manufacture for construction: Building for change states that off-site manufacture (OSM) can help to increase productivity in the construction sector while reducing labour demands, improving the quality and efficiency of buildings, and reducing the environmental impacts associated with traditional construction.

However, take up of OSM is varied and somewhat limited across the sector because it is working with out-dated and unsustainable business models that are not conducive to OSM for construction. OSM requires collaboration between clients, designers and contractors from an early stage.

This CIRIA project will develop a methodology that will allow key stakeholders to make evidence-based decisions about the use of off-site manufacturing solutions as an alternative to traditional construction practices. 

Click here for full details on the project.