• 50 years experience
    Industry experts
  • Bespoke buildings
    Tailored portable units
  • High quality at great value
    Made in the UK

What Are The Current Challenges Facing UK Modular Construction?

What Are The Current Challenges Facing UK Modular Construction?

From the reluctance to adopt a non-traditional construction method to the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on all aspects of the industry. In this article, we explore some of the challenges facing the modular construction industry.

COVID-19

Much like many sectors, the coronavirus pandemic has hit the UK construction industry hard throughout 2020 and into 2021.

Initially, many jobs were at risk and sites were forced to close. But, as we strive to recover, we have been forced to rethink how buildings should be designed and built, with space in mind.

Social distancing measures are here to stay for a while longer, and so that construction can continue effectively, developers need to reduce their reliance on labour-intensive traditional construction and look to new methods, and modular construction can be a key solution.

Much less manual labour is required in comparison to a traditional build, increasing the ease of sticking to social distancing measures. Further, specialist factories also offer health and safety benefits because they are controlled environments where order and process take precedence, such as our ISO-approved factory in St Helens.

Lastly, modular construction is also quicker when compared to traditional processes, and this quick turnaround time is key for helping the construction industry offset delays in project timelines.

Adapting To Change

There is still a reluctance to shift from traditional builds to modular ones, but we can slowly see a shift in attitude when it comes to offsite building techniques, largely driven by increased awareness of the time and cost-saving benefits.

To find out more, take a look at these articles:

Skills Shortage

The skills shortage is an ongoing issue across the construction industry. In particular, the industry is in need of bricklayers, carpenters, electricians and plumbers, with demand continuing to outstrip supply.

However, a slightly different skill set is required for modular construction meaning there is an opportunity to increase construction projects across the UK, without increasing the pressure on these more traditional trades.

In this article, we explore the key skills needed to ensure excellence in every modular build.

Sustainability

Tackling climate emergencies and sustainability remains a key concern across the construction industry.

Buildings and the materials used in traditional construction account for a large proportion of energy consumption in the UK. However, compared to a traditionally built project, up to 67%, less energy is required to produce a modular build.

Modular construction plays a major role in making the building sector more sustainable, and there are many benefits of opting for off-site construction methods.

On top of the benefits of off-site construction, there are also many eco-friendly features of modular buildings themselves, in comparison to their traditional counterparts.

You can find out more about our key environmental commitments as a business on our sustainability page.

Brexit

On top of the profound effects of coronavirus, Brexit is also showing as a challenge to the construction industry.

Not only will there be reduced access to skilled European workers, but there are also likely to be shortages and delays in accessing key materials. For example, at present, the steel shortage is likely to have an effect on how we keep the construction industry moving throughout 2021.

With the impact of these challenges in mind, a great focal point for the future of UK construction should be to promote and utilise the fantastic opportunities available through widespread modular construction, to keep pushing forward with new developments across the country.

We pride ourselves in creating and manufacturing bespoke, long-lasting modular buildings suited to your requirements.

If you’d like some more information on projects we have previously successfully delivered, take a look at our case studies and testimonials. Or, to get in contact with our expert team, give us a call on 01744 851 958, fill out our contact form or request a callback.

Why choose Springfield

Experience

We have over 50 years’ experience in the portable building industry and know the best way to produce high-quality affordable buildings that meet everyone’s differing needs.

Made in the UK

We are proud of our buildings which are designed, sourced and built in the UK by our on-site dedicated teams.

Bespoke

Our on-site design and production allow us to create your building to your exact specifications - both inside and outside.

Sustainability

Our buildings are manufactured to last, and our building process means that there is less waste than with traditional building methods

Value for money

Our high-quality materials and production methods mean we can offer you great quality modular builds at an exceptional value.

Buy or hire

We give you the option to either buy or hire your building, depending on your needs. We also offer open-ended contracts so you can have more flexibility. 

Contact Us

Contact our friendly team for more information on our full range of buildings and how to start the process of hiring or buying a modular building for your business. Our expert team is always available to give advice, guidance or support.

Springfield Mobile Ltd
Unit 2, 12 Abbotsfield Road,
Sutton,
St Helens,
WA9 4HU

Tel: 01744 851958

Fax: 01744 811565

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