Modular construction - working with L&G Modular Homes to help solve the UK housing crisis

Modular construction – working with L&G Modular Homes to help solve the UK housing crisis

29th July 2021

The construction industry is ramping up its use of modular construction.

Against the backdrop of the housing crisis, a lack of affordable homes, planning reform and a skills shortage – throw in a global pandemic – and the current landscape needs to be reviewed – and quick!

The Government and house builders are looking at solutions to build new homes quickly and as part of this wider review of the need for new homes across the UK, modular construction is being championed by many in the industry as a possible answer to solve some of these challenges. One such champion is Legal & General Modular Homes.

Woods Hardwick’s architects have just secured planning approval for 153 modular houses in Broadstairs, Kent, on behalf of Legal & General Modular Homes (LGMH). Westwood Lodge is a major development for L&G, building on their ambitions to deliver 3,000 modular homes a year in 2024.

Working closely with Thanet District Council’s Tree Officer, Conservation Officer and independent tree consultants, Woods Hardwick provided architectural support to successfully secure planning permission within the historic grounds of Westwood Lodge. On this unique site, the housing layout is designed to nestle within the existing woodland setting of the listed Victorian Lodge built in 1864. The development also includes the planting of 8,500 new trees, protecting the woodland setting for future generations.

Woods Hardwick’s Residential Architecture Associate, Mark Percival, explains:

“Securing permission for more than 150 new homes in this unique location is testament to the work of the whole project team. By taking a fresh approach to design and using modern, sustainable manufacturing techniques, we are demonstrating the value of modular construction for house builders and local communities across the UK.”

With offices in Bedford, Birmingham and London, this great result demonstrates Woods Hardwick’s prominence as one of the UK’s leading multidisciplinary professional practices in the built environment. Across the Group, we are embracing new technology to provide sustainable and carbon-friendly homes for local communities. All of Legal & General’s modular houses meet EPC rating ‘A’, are in excess of NDSS standards (in terms of space requirements) and fitted with solar panels and air source heat pump technology as standard. The innovative construction methods that will be used for this scheme will mean that much needed houses for the local area are delivered in a much shorter time frame, whilst guaranteeing high quality through LGMH’s manufacturing facility in Sherburn-in-Elmet, Yorkshire.

What is modular construction?

Modular construction involves constructing elements of a building offsite in a factory before being transported to site for assembly. The process uses all the same materials, standards and codes as conventional buildings, but can be completed in around half the time. The buildings are produced in “modules” that are put together on site.

Why choose modular homes?