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Funding streams now available to upskill in Low Energy Construction  

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Timber and sustainable low energy construction standards such as Passivhaus are a win-win but how can you upskill to join in?

Powys Passivhaus Primary School. Built using timber construction, the pioneering certified Passivhaus school provides an exceptional operational energy performance of 56 kWh/m2/year – more than 80% better than a typical new build primary school. Credit: Pave Away Ltd

With the Welsh Design Net Zero (DNZ) pattern book for 23 social housing providers and their supply chains due to launch in January, the pilot UK net zero standard launched in October and the adoption of the Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard in consultation, we need to rapidly upskill our workforce at all levels to keep pace with the coming demand for energy efficient low carbon affordable homes.

The Welsh Government and the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) have recognised this need. They recently opened funding streams to support construction professionals to access a range of low energy construction training courses. The courses run by Coaction Training CIC offer practitioner led learning at introductory, intermediate and advanced levels through the lens of the Passivhaus standard.

“Passivhaus is a logical building standard that delivers quality assured, comfortable healthy low energy buildings via good design and attention to detail; especially when the design priorities the use of natural building materials to keep a low embodied carbon impact.  There are many myths which we are currently debating and further exploring within our communities of practice – it’s not just for houses, it’s not necessarily more expensive, you can open the windows! etc.” Dr Diana Waldron, Certified Passivhaus Designer, Head of Built Environment, Wood Knowledge Wales

But what is Passivhaus?
Passivhaus is foremost a comfort and health standard, that reduces the need for operational energy use through a fabric first approach and the use of building physics principles. The evidence supports that the Passivhaus standard can significantly contribute to our journey towards Net Zero, and ensures quality when certified.

Homes designed, built and certified to, or near to, the Passivhaus standard from timber will be winners on multiple levels as we chase Net Zero challenges.

Timber frame and Passivhaus should be natural bedfellows. With a fabric-first approach timber frame can easily accommodate insulation within an I-joist, twin wall, Larson truss, box beam, or even CLT structure. Airtightness can be achieved using timber-based boards from OSB, to chipboard, to CLT, with proprietary tapes. The use of MVHR (mechanical ventilation with heat recovery) contributes to achieving higher levels of indoor air quality (IAQ) and steady suitable indoor temperature. These items play a relevant role in maintaining a higher level of occupants’ comfort, but also benefit the timber structural fabric, as it removes the internal moisture loads and reduces expansion and contraction via the stable temperature.

“I came to the Passivhaus standard in 2015 after delivering the Royal Welsh Ty Unnos Pavillion with Matthew Jones (Maxiom Ltd), Rob Thomas (Hiraeth & Passivhaus Designer 2019) and Kenton Jones (Unnos Systems). We wanted to deliver a low energy MMC home from Welsh timber. We had a good stab at it, but we did not understand what we needed to do with airtightness, continuous insulation and thermal bridges – had we had the Passivhaus knowledge we could have delivered a low energy build alongside being on time and on budget. I highly recommend taking up these fantastic opportunities, it will enhance the way you design and build.” Tabitha Binding, Coaction Training CIC (WKW Board Member 2017 to 2022)

Funded Training Opportunities

Finding the appropriate training, when and where you need it at the right level is challenging and can be costly. Here is a list of current grants available specifically for upskilling in low energy construction and design (some of which are time, region or industry specific):

  • CITB funding: Accessed via your Local CITB Employer Network, offers a grant providing you with 70% off Coaction courses – eligible courses are Bitesize Low Energy Design, Certified Passivhaus Tradesperson, Retrofit Delivery and Passivhaus in Practice – read more here.
  • Welsh Government funding: Accessed via the Welsh Business Net Zero flexible skills programme offers a grant of 50% off  course fees, which is applicable to any of the Coaction courses: Bitesize Low Energy Design, Passivhaus Certified Designer, THERM online, Certified Passivhaus Tradesperson, Retrofit Delivery plus  and Passivhaus in Practice – read more here. To be eligible you must be solvent, based in Wales and complete training by the end of March 2025.
  • City of York funding: Thismay seem a little odd listed here, but this funding applies to ANY suppliers working on or planning to bid on upcoming York based projects : read more here.

Which course is right for you?

Drawing from a team of 21 experts the following courses have been designed to ensure you will receive the best knowledge and develop the confidence to deliver truly low energy buildings on site.

INTRODUCTORY – Bitesize Low Energy Design: Design-focused introduction to the essential components of sustainable building design, through the lens of Passivhaus, offering a quality-assured route to achieving healthy, high-performance buildings, with a focus on reducing energy use, while also addressing embodied energy and construction waste. No prior knowledge required.

INTERMEDIATE – Certified Passivhaus Tradesperson: Discover a proven fabric-first approach to low-energy building with our Certified Passivhaus Tradesperson course, designed for contractors at a supervisory or management level. You will develop skills to deliver successful Passivhaus builds on-site, whether large or small, and the knowledge to achieve the internationally recognized Passivhaus Tradesperson certificate, backed by UK-specific expertise.

INTERMEDIATE – Certified Passivhaus Designer: This course will fundamentally transform your approach to sustainable design, giving you knowledge which can be brought to every one of your projects, no matter the brief.Through a blend of live webinars, interactive tutorials, and self-study, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the Passivhaus standard, building physics, and the essential elements of designing and detailing the building envelope and services. You’ll also be introduced to Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP) software, completing a whole PHPP and understand how to use it effectively to interrogate design.

ADVANCED – Passivhaus Retrofit Delivery: Designed for those who have low energy building knowledge and are looking to embark on a deep retrofit project. Retrofit is challenging, we have worked with our leading trainers to bring you the most up to date and relevant knowledge needed to deliver successful deep fabric retrofits on-site. This course focuses on the practical challenges and best practices in retrofit projects, equipping you to manage unforeseen changes and ensure quality.

ADVANCED –Introduction To THERM : If thermal bridging is your thing, and it should be, then this self-study course will give you the knowledge and understanding to interrogate 2D thermal bridges using THERM software.

Require more information? For further information or an informal chat contact the Training Team at support@coaction.org.uk. We’re eager to support as many people as possible in accessing these opportunities. By working together, we can upskill the entire industry.

Social Impact: As a Community Interest Company, any profits are reinvested to enhance Coaction courses and support the upskilling of built environment professionals in the UK.

The Secret Campsite honoured for sustainable design excellence at the Scottish Structural Awards

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Embracing the principles of a circular economy by prioritised material reuse not just at the end of the building’s life but from the very beginning led to a remarkably low-carbon and low-cost building

Congratulations to Toby Maclean and his team at Allt Environmental Structural Engineers, Shaun Ryder of Rural Workshop and Local Works Studio who have been recognised with the “Best Sustainable Design Project” award at the Scottish Structural Awards. This accolade, awarded to The Secret Campsite project on behalf of the Secret Camping Club, celebrates their innovative all-timber approach, including reclaimed materials and timber foundations, in their latest project.

The Scottish Structural Awards, organised by the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), highlight outstanding achievements in structural engineering, with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Allt Environmental’s project stood out for its commitment to environmental responsibility and resource efficiency.

“The highly collaborative approach between builder, engineer and architect led to flexibility with material selection according to local and reclaimed availability and the sketch format used for construction drawinqs enabled a rapid response to changes and build preferences,” explained Toby Maclean, founder of Allt Environmental Structural Engineers and Construction | Independent advisor for Woodknowledge Wales.

The Secret Campsite in East Sussex

Telegraph pole split for use as floor beam
Telegraph pole floor beam with old BT markings

The new amenity and facilities building at The Secret Campsite in East Sussex showcases an extraordinary commitment to sustainability and environmental sensitivity. Designed as the ultimate “light-touch” structure, this project minimises its ecological impact from inception to execution.

Accessible and family bathroom

Initially, the client had received planning approval for a standard concrete block amenity building for showers and washing facilities. However, they became dissatisfied with the environmental and aesthetic impact of the proposed design and its cost. Seeking a better solution, they approached the team to create something more aligned with their values and the site’s unique character.

The team collaborated with architects to develop a strategy cantered on using locally available materials, including some sourced directly from the site. By embracing the principles of a circular economy, the project prioritised material reuse not just at the end of the building’s life, as is often the case, but from the very beginning.

A timber frame structure was chosen, supported by reused telegraph pole posts that cantilever from the ground, eliminating the need for carbon-intensive foundations. Locally sourced larch and sweet chestnut were used for the superstructure, ensuring minimal environmental impact and a harmonious fit within the surrounding landscape.

The result is an airy, lightweight building that not only enhances the campsite’s amenities but also aligns with its sustainable ethos. This standout feature elevates the campsite’s appeal while being procured at a lower cost than the original standard design. This project exemplifies innovation, environmental responsibility, and a forward-thinking approach to sustainable construction.

Calculating embodied carbon in this unusual building

While the building is unheated and so avoided the embodied carbon associated with insulation, the approach adopted can still be seen to have led to a remarkably low-carbon and low-cost building with many principles applicable to “more usual” buildings.  The dedication to re-use of materials and use of natural materials is the predominant driver behind this.

“We have undertaken an embodied carbon calculation in accordance with the generally accepted RICS methodology via the IStructE  / Elliott Wood carbon calculator and verified this through in-house tools,” explained Toby. “Note that a nominal carbon intensity figure of 0.1 kg CO2e/kg was used for reclaimed metal roofing and reclaimed timber to cover the recovery and transport emissions.”

The results were calculated for the structural elements only and separately for the whole building (excluding fittings) and they show the building performs exceptionally well achieving an A++ score across the board.

This recognition from the Scottish Structural Awards underscores Allt Environmental’s dedication to advancing sustainable practices in structural engineering.

Cross Laminated Cascades in Cardiff  

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Social Housing Developers Community of Practice get the chance to visit the Cascade’s seven-storey CLT structure to see how much progress is being made by Linc Cymru

The Cascade’s CLT structure being assembled by Eurban on site in August 2024 
 

There are many social housing projects in Wales that use timber structural frames. More and more new homes are being built from timber frames made in a factory, off-site, and delivered to site for rapid assembly. Until now however, there haven’t been many new homes designed using engineered timber. 

Inspired by a Passivhaus Conference presentation on CLT and Milan’s Bosco Verticale, Linc Cymru (part of the Pobl Group) made the decision to develop a mid-rise block of apartments in Cardiff’s City Road using a form of engineered timber which is a much more familiar construction material in continental Europe. Cross Laminated Timber, or CLT, is a product made from five layers of solid timber glued together, to make a rigid, strong, lightweight and low carbon alternative to concrete and steel.  

The structure for all seven storeys of the new Cascade Tower took shape back in the summer of 2024 where, over the course of a few months, specialist designers, Eurban, erected the individual panels of CLT, which slotted together neatly onsite, within the fine tolerances this engineered material allows. 

The Cascade Tower’s CLT structure provides the inner skin of the building’s external walls, all main internal load bearing and compartment walls, floors, roof deck and roof top terraces. The structure sits on reinforced concrete piled foundations with concrete pile caps and ground beams. The outer leaf of its external walls will be faced in brickwork with coated metal cladding to landings and above roof terraces. Windows will be uPVC. Structural steel is used for large spans and the stair and lift core which will home steel stairs and external landings.  

Designed with biophilic considerations in mind, the building will have plants growing in containers on facade with an irrigation system and a green roof with photovoltaic panels. The internal space and water will be electrically heated, and the building will have a mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) system to bring fresh air into the building and capture the heat energy in the stale air as it leaves the building.  

In October, members of our Social Housing Developers Community of Practice got the chance to visit the project, to see how much progress is being made. Linc Cymru’s Richard Hallett and contractor  Langstone Construction’s Scott Eames showed us around and described the challenges of building on such a confined city centre site and the precision of the CLT frame once it had been erected. 

Cardiff Council has supported Linc Cymru throughout the project. Initially this involved grant allocation within the development programme. Linc Cymru  is currently working with the Council on an agreement for the letting and management of the apartments once complete. 

Woodknowledge Wales members with a good head for heights visit the Cascade Tower project in October. 

The Cascade Tower is a £10.9M project, part funded by Welsh Government through the Innovative Housing Programme and Social Housing Grant. It will provide 48 1 bedroom apartments and has been designed by Cardiff practice Powell Dobson Architects and is being built by Langstone Construction Group. It’s due for completion in September 2025. 

In October members of our Social Housing Developers Community of Practice got the chance to visit the project. They were given a tour of the project by Linc Cymru’s Richard Hallett and Langstone’s Scott Eames. 

Read more about the Cascade trip: Building to seven storeys with CLT

New insights into affordable housing

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New insights into affordable housing: Woodknowledge Wales members, Jon James Studio Architecture sets the stage with ‘Creating Homes, Not Housing’

In the realm of affordable housing, few voices are as passionate and insightful as Jon James Studio Architecture. Known for their dedication to quality and community-centred design, they’ve recently released a powerful new document, “Creating Homes, Not Housing” that tackles the pressing issues facing affordable housing in the UK.

“As a studio, we wanted to step back from the busy day to day to really understand and analyze the challenges and complexities involved with creating homes that fall under the ‘affordable banner.’”
—Jon James Studio Architecture, in “Creating Homes, Not Housing”

Jon James Studio Architecture’s lead designers have taken a moment to pause, reflect, and evaluate their experiences in designing affordable homes—an opportunity, they say, to step back from the day-to-day grind and dive deeper into the challenges they face. “As a studio, we wanted to step back from the busy day to day to really understand and analyse the challenges and complexities involved with creating homes that fall under the ‘affordable banner’,” they share. “We needed to capture our experience to date around creating the highest quality homes in that context. We intend to continue to review and discuss with others and welcome comments and other experiences from those passionate about how we can together improve the quality of all our homes.”

Their reflections come at a time when public conversations about affordable housing are stirring up significant discourse, especially in light of The Observer’s recent feature, “They look like homes for rich people”: why Britain should look to Europe for its council housing revolution by Rowan Moore, published Sat 9 Nov 2024.

As Jon James Studio Architecture sees it, the future of affordable housing lies in reframing it as “Creating Homes, Not Housing.” By focusing on this mindset, they believe it is possible to establish homes that are not only high quality but also resonate deeply with the needs and spirit of the communities they serve.

“The document highlights how critical interdisciplinary collaboration is to the success of building quality homes and places.”
—Jon James Studio Architecture, in “Creating Homes, Not Housing”

5 Principles of Good Design in Affordable Housing

    The guide encapsulates five principles of good design, emphasising that context should serve as the “golden thread” uniting every aspect of the design process.

    1. Contextual Sensitivity – Design should align with the character, history, and needs of the local area.
    2. Quality of Space – Both interior and exterior spaces should enhance residents’ daily experiences.
    3. Sustainability – Environmental considerations should be integral to design, from materials to energy use.
    4. Inclusivity – Spaces must be accessible, welcoming, and adaptable to different lifestyles.
    5. Longevity – Homes should be built to last, providing durability and ease of maintenance over time.

    At a time when the housing crisis is intensifying, their work showcases the benefits of an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together architects, urban planners, clients, and consultants to craft homes that stand as examples of thoughtful design and community well-being. “We have been fortunate to work with some inspirational clients and consultants,” they say. “This has given us the opportunity to see, and learn, how this can be achieved through collaboration. The document highlights how critical interdisciplinary collaboration is to the success of building quality homes and places.”

    Key Concept: The Golden Thread of Context

    In affordable housing, context is more than just a design element—it’s the “golden thread” that weaves together the architecture and community needs. By prioritizing the local context, architects can create spaces that feel integrated and meaningful to residents. As Jon James Studio Architecture emphasises, “understanding and respecting the environment around a home ensures it becomes a genuine part of the community, enhancing both social and environmental well-being.”

    Feedback invited

    This new publication, available here on Issuu, is designed to be accessible and actionable, providing valuable insights and resources to anyone involved in residential development. Whether you’re an architect, designer, planner, or simply someone invested in the future of affordable housing, Creating Homes, Not Housing is a valuable resource. Jon James Studio Architecture invites feedback and insights from others in the field to continue pushing the boundaries of what affordable housing can be.

    For more information or to connect directly with Jon James Studio Architecture, visit their website or reach out to them directly. They welcome all dialogue that seeks to elevate the quality and integrity of affordable housing in the UK and beyond.

    New position: Event manager

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    Job opportunity: Join the Woodknowledge Wales team and mission

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    Apply now with a CV and covering letter

    Are you passionate about creating a low-carbon future that allows people to thrive on a healthy planet? Do you enjoy creating and managing events to bring together stakeholders across an entire value chain? Are you comfortable taking responsibility for delivering tasks working within a small team? Then work with us in Wales!

    You will be part of a small, highly motivated, multi-disciplinary team dedicated to increasing the role of trees to decarbonise the natural environment and timber to decarbonise the built environment.

    As the events manager, you will be a key driving force behind Woodknowledge Wales and its success. You will be instrumental in inspiring a positive and proactive approach within our organisation and networks. Together with our members and highly committed team, you will help to create a compelling case for timber construction, local manufacturing, home-grown timber and afforestation in Wales and thereby help to transform Wales into a low carbon, more resilient forest nation.

    Job description

    JOB TITLEEvents manager
    PURPOSE OF JOBTo manage delivery of internal meetings and organisational conferences, events and webinars as well as representing Woodknowledge Wales at third party events.
    REPORTING TOGary Newman (CEO) and Sarah Lawton (Head of Communications)
    SUPPORTED BYThe Woodknowledge Wales team
    LOCATIONThe Woodknowledge Wales head office in 22 Cathedral Road, Cardiff, CF11 9LJ. Alternatively, home-based with an expectation to travel anywhere within Wales and the borders as required by the job
    AREA OF WORKThroughout Wales and beyond, working with the timber supply chain from forest to construction and placemaking.
    HOURS OF WORKFull-time. Some long days and weekend working may be required from time to time including occasional overnight stays.
    SALARYBetween £25k and £35k depending on experience
    DURATIONThis is a permanent job.
    HOW TO APPLYSend CV with a covering letter stating why you believe you are suited to the post to gary.newman@woodknowledgewales.co.uk
    DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONFriday 29th November 2024  
    DATE & LOCATION for INTERVIEWWeek Commencing 2nd December 2024 Location: TBA (ideally in-person but possibly online via Teams)

    Key Responsibilities

    You will be responsible for working with our internal experts to manage the logistics and implementation of events on behalf of Woodknowledge Wales, as well as its partners and stakeholders where required.

    Events management and facilitation

    You will help organise and promote our conferences, webinars and training events. You will work with the Head of Communications, Head of Networks, expert team members and external delivery partners to ensure the smooth running and delivery of a range of private and public facing activities. Where necessary, you will facilitate remote and face to face events with support from the team.

    Organisation advocacy

    You will be responsible for representing Woodknowledge Wales at third party industry events where required. In this role you will present the organisation’s vision, mission, and project updates on behalf of the entire team.

    Monitoring and evaluation

    You will monitor, evaluate and report on all events activities to ensure internal team members, the steering group, board and relevant funders are kept up to date.

    You will work with the Head of Communications and Head of Networks and will be supported by the Chief Executive and our project team which includes experts in forestry, housing, manufacturing, wood science, timber construction, and systems change.

    Key abilities / experience

    We are looking for someone with the ability to work closely with a small team in a flexible and supportive way across job boundaries and who is comfortable working from home. You must be able to engage with all relevant individuals and organisations in the supply chain from forest to construction sector, academics and policy makers, in a way that promotes trust and supports the mission and purpose of Woodknowledge Wales as a for-public-good organisation.

    You must be able to develop an understanding of the complex challenges to landscapes and communities posed by climate change and to communicate with empathy and clarity in discussions around these.

    Person Specification
    • Relevant experience in event management.
    • Public speaking skills to deliver presentations and facilitate public meetings.
    • Project management and decision-making skills. Ability to prioritise and manage multiple project tasks and deadlines.
    • Stakeholder engagement awareness. Evidence of effective partnership working.
    • Thorough working knowledge of Microsoft Office, online conferencing and event management tools (e.g. Zoom, Teams)
    • Working knowledge in the use of event management software (e.g. Mailchimp, Hootsuite, Eventbrite, WordPress)
    • An organised self-starter, able to manage own workload and work independently to tight timescales
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
    • Willingness to work in a flexible way and respond to changing circumstances
    • Full, clean driving license and access to a car for travel throughout those parts of Wales where there is limited access to public transport
    Desirable criteria
    • Welsh language skills
    • Commercial mindedness and an ability to manage a budget
    Apply now with a CV and covering letter

    About Woodknowledge Wales

    Woodknowledge Wales is an independent mission driven membership alliance. We are a charitable Community Benefits Society, which is a form of cooperative that exists for the benefit of society. We are governed by a voluntary board. We aim to create and share knowledge to accelerate change. We believe that timber demand and supply can be better aligned and more purposefully driven to deliver greater climate change mitigation and biodiversity enhancement across land use and construction. We are transparent and collaborative in our approach. We are a change organisation driven by impact rather than income.

    We are a small interdisciplinary team of driven individuals motivated to inspire, catalyse and accelerate the transformation to a regenerative zero carbon society through the growing of trees and the use of wood. We believe that the most effective way to do this is to build trust in the change agenda by supporting organisations involved in both timber use and supply. We seek to capture and share the knowledge gained by holding engaging events, by creating informative case studies, by developing new guidance and through inspiring communication. We support policy makers to create enabling policies and then help overcome barriers to implementation.

    How to apply

    Send your CV with a covering letter stating why you believe you are suited to the post via email to Gary Newman.

    Download job description
    Apply now with a CV and covering letter

    Woodknowledge Wales branches out onto the international sustainable change stage

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    As global calls for sustainable development grow louder, Wales’ wood knowledge network is stepping up to share insights, forge partnerships, and shape policies for a regenerative, circular economy in Europe

    Cardiff, 8 November 2024 – This November, Woodknowledge Wales (WKW) were invited onto the international stage to contribute expertise rooted and grown in Wales to policy discussions, research collaborations, and sustainable innovation initiatives across Europe. Leading these efforts are Gary Newman, Chief Executive, and Christiane Lellig, Specialist Advisor for Regenerative Systems Change, who will represent WKW at four high-profile events, where they aimed to share, learn and help develop cross-border efforts to advance sustainable, wood-based economies.

    Sharing the flat business model approach at Built by Nature’s Annual Summit

    Gary Newman kicked off the month by attending the Built by Nature Annual Summit in Amsterdam on November 6th,7th and 8th . Representing WKW among European leaders in timber construction. The event provides a unique opportunity to connect and learn from other countries.  Gary has been specifically invited to share the WkW business model and approach in a workshop with international Built by Nature network leads.

    The Summit provided WKW with a rare opportunity to showcase Wales’  approach to wood-based development and to position Welsh expertise within an international network, that includes leading developers, investors, designers, asset owners, insurers and national and local government

    “Work rooted in Wales demonstrates that even a small nation can make a significant impact in sustainable, resilient construction. and we’re looking forward to sharing our progress with, and learning from an international audience,” Gary Newman commented as he left for the conference.

    Championing Policy Development: Wood Policy and Innovation Conference

    On the same day, Christiane Lellig joined policy experts and stakeholders at the Wood Policy and Innovation Conference byWood4Bauhaus in Brussels. Christiane contributed to discussions on the policy frameworks required to develop a thriving, sustainable forest-based economy in the UK and Europe. With Welsh wood policies currently at a crucial development stage, Christiane sees this as a golden opportunity to draw on European insights that could strengthen WKW’s policy advocacy back home.

    “This conference is about more than policy,” Christiane noted. “It’s about building resilience and robustness across the wood value chain and connecting with policymakers who share our commitment to a forest based economy that adds value to people and planet. We’ll bring new perspectives back to Wales and look at how we can collaborate with European partners towards shared goals.”

    Strengthening European Connections: EUFORE Stakeholder Meeting and Bioeconomy Regions Summit

    Christiane’s European engagements continue with her attendance at the EUFORE Stakeholder Meeting on November 27th and the Bioeconomy Regions Summit on November 28th. These gatherings will allow WKW to forge valuable partnerships and learn from other regions developing place-based bioeconomy strategies. Christiane will speak at the summit about WKW’s collaborative approach to innovation that emphasises authentic relationships between people and the need for a cultural shift towards embracing trees and timber as part of Wales’ rich cultural heritage and identity.

    The Bioeconomy Regions Summit’s panel discussions offer a rich forum for Christiane to share insights from Wales’ wood value chain and discuss potential new avenues with panel guests from Austria and the Netherlands.

    “It’s a privilege to represent Wales at such a high-level event and demonstrate how collaborative strategies can enable businesses and people across the forest and construction sector to thrive. It’s clear to me that successful bioeconomy transitions require not only policy support but also strong, regional partnerships that can bring about meaningful, localised change,” said Christiane.

    Wales’ Influence on a Global Wood Economy

    These events mark a step forward for WKW as it branches out internationally. With WKW’s commitment to a forest-based, regenerative economy firmly aligned with EU goals, both Gary and Christiane aim to strengthen Wales’ role in Europe’s bioeconomy.

    “Wales is proud to be part of these important conversations and to contribute our ideas and experience,” says Gary. “The future of sustainable construction and forestry is a shared effort, and we’re honored to play a role in it alongside our international partners.”

    Housing’s better future

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    Social Housing Developers Community of Practice members enjoy a hosted tour to include both off-site creation of timber frame panels and on-site progress at the Gwynfaen Project

    Members of Woodknowledge Wales, colleagues from Welsh Government and Hale Group at the end of the Gwynfaen tour

    On 21 October 2024, members of Woodknowledge Wales’ Social Housing Developers Communities of Practice (CoP) made two linked site visits to see how timber is being used to make new homes t near Swansea. This event enabled CoP members to see both the off-site creation of timber frame panels at the SO Modular factory in Neath, and the on-site progress at Pobl Group‘s Gwynfaen Project (Penyrheol, Swansea) which has been referenced in many discussions over the last few years.

    The visit proved to be an opportunity to watch the process of transforming lengths of home-grown timber into the panels that, once taken to site and assembled, make up the shell of new energy efficient homes. On a site overlooking the Loughor Estuary and with a view of the Gower peninsular work is underway on the third phase of the project which will create 144 new high performance homes.

    A Social Housing Developers CoP visit photo story

    Jon James, Steve Cranston and Catrin Sneade listening intently to Warren Rowlands 

    Sevenoaks (SO) Modular factory in Neath

    The day began at Sevenoaks (SO) Modular’s factory in Neath. We started with a presentation by Head of Production and Technical Efficiency Warren Rowlands – someone well respected by his peers for his knowledge and his willingness to share it, in what is a very competitive, commercial environment. Warren explained the approach to timber frame construction and some of the challenges in off-site manufacturing. 

    Panels being framed at a workstation 

    The tour of the factory walked everyone through the stages of creating the key components of the timber frame homes, including the optimised cutting of the timber, the nailing of the frames, automated insulation with wood fibre and the installation of doors and windows. 

    Windows and doors are installed in the timber frame panels.

    Wood fibre insulation fills each panel before it’s closed up.

    Pobl Group’s Gwynfaen site in Penyrheol, Swansea

    Hale’s Tom Bevan talks about the specification and achieving airtightness targets.

    From the factory we headed from Neath to Gwynfaen site in Penyrheol, Swansea. From the site office, Hale Group’s Construction Director Tom Bevan and Pobl Group’s Project Manager, Peter Remedios, took everyone around the third phase of the project. Our hosts pointed out the progression of new homes from initial site delivery and assembly, through the stages of completion, highlighting some of the key features of the individual homes and the site. 

    Phase 3 homes under construction. External finishes include render and timber cladding.

    The homes are weather-tight within a week of the panels arriving on site and the completed homes are finished in around six months.  

    The Gwynfaen Project has been designed as a high-quality, cohesive and sustainable community using rural planning principles and being led by a strong green infrastructure and placemaking approach. The notion of ‘combustion free living’ has challenged some of the more conservative and traditional ‘gatekeepers’ but as with all developments, compromises have been struck in order to make progress. 

    Pobl Group’s Elfed Roberts outlines the approach to placemaking at Gwynfaen 

    The site tour finished with a look into some of the culs-de-sac of completed timber clad homes and a visit to the Sales & Marketing Suite. Here we were able to see the completed layout of rooms and how the fabric of the new homes has accommodated the technology to reduce the energy needs of the occupiers. Built in technology includes air source heat pumps, solar photovoltaics, batteries and mechanical ventilation and heat recovery systems. Requirements for the project also include the use of Welsh sourced timber for the superstructure (panels) along with wood fibre for the insulation, Welsh Larch cladding and timber triple glazed windows and doors.

    Appreciating the completed homes and spaces 

    The Gwynfaen Project has further phases ahead and it’s likely that the precise design and manufacture of the homes will continue to be refined as a result of the off- and on-site experience of the client and contractor. We look forward to a return visit at some point. 

    For Woodknowledge Wales, site visits like these provide important opportunities for members to see how the ideas and concepts discussed at CoP meetings are becoming a reality. They are important networking opportunities, a chance to be inspired, introduced to fresh thinking and where solutions to common problems can be shared.

    We wish to thank both So Modular and Pobl Group for making this visit possible.

    For further information about future site visits, please contact David Hedges.

    For information about Woodknowledge Wales membership and/or joining the Social Housing Developers Community of Practice, or another of our CoPs, please contact Rachel Cook.

    Bio Materials in Retrofit: An Industry Perspective at AECB Annual Conference

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    Applying best practice to create sustainable timber solutions for homes across Wales

    On Friday 27th September 2024 at 2pm during the AECB annual conference in The National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon, audiences enjoyed a joint presentation from Dr Diana Waldron, Head of Built Environment for Woodknowledge Wales, and Richard Hawking, Technical Innovations Manager from SO Modular.

    Diana’s contribution included a short ‘show and tell’ session demonstrating the use of Building Performance Evaluation (BPE) equipment and promoting BPE in Retrofit.

    “The conference was a great success with over 150 delegates this year, and we have already started to receive plenty of positive feedback. Your [Woodknowledge Wales’] contribution played a significant role in the success of the event and it was a privilege to have you involved. Your breakout session went down really well – it has featured heavily in our feedback,” wrote Michelle Youngs, Events, Communications & Marketing, AECB

    About the Home-Grown Homes for Retrofit Optimised Retrofit Program (ORP3)

    Working in collaboration with industry, community groups and Local Authorities, Woodknowledge Wales (WKW) works to assist the construction industry in it’s approach to retrofit by advocating for sustainable practices and the use of natural materials. The aim is to transform existing housing into ‘Beyond Net Zero’ liveable homes, as part of UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) Green Transition Ecosystem awards.

    Current retrofitting methods heavily depend on synthetic materials like plastics and foam insulation, which can result in high embodied carbon emissions that overshadow the carbon savings from energy reductions. WKW addresses this by working with partners like SO Modular to bring innovative timber-based solutions into the retrofit sector, significantly reducing carbon footprints.

    Through its collaboration with the GW4 Climate Alliance, WKW is involved in developing an Optimised Retrofit Program (ORP3) with Welsh housing associations. Part of the wider Home-Grown Homes project, this program integrates sustainable approaches into retrofitting existing homes, with a key emphasis on natural, renewable materials like wood and wood-fibre insulation, which can provide both environmental and health benefits. SO Modular, a company specialising in timber frame construction, aligns with these values, offering sustainable timber solutions that prioritise speed, eco-friendliness, and reduced embodied carbon in retrofitting and new builds alike​.

    Woodknowledge Wales emphasises community engagement in the retrofit process. By involving occupants early on, the project fosters positive responses to retrofit initiatives, ensuring that changes made are beneficial and well-received. This staged approach includes evaluating opportunities to use natural materials based on performance results, further enhancing the sustainability of retrofit efforts.

    Download the full presentation here.

    If you wish to find out more about our Building Performance Evaluation (BPE) services, please contact Dr Diana Waldron.

    Woodknowledge Wales CEO addresses Senedd Committee on Timber’s Role in Advancing the Foundational Economy and Decarbonisation

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    On Wednesday 16 October 2024, Woodknowledge Wales’ CEO, Gary Newman, addressed the Senedd’s Economy, Trade, and Rural Affairs Committee relating to their inquiry on the Foundational Economy.

    All interested parties can watch the full inquiry, to include Gary’s inputs, via the Senedd TV archives.

    “…afforestation is a key decarbonisation strategy in the natural environment and the use of timber is a key decarbonisation strategy in the built environment, and their expansion and re-purposing is a clear opportunity to achieve foundational economic outcomes, particularly within our rural communities,” Gary Newman, CEO, Woodknowledge Wales in his written response to the committee.

    This inquiry aims to evaluate how well the Welsh Government has integrated support for the foundational economy into its economic development strategy and what further steps are needed. It will explore how cross-departmental coordination can enhance mainstreaming support for foundational sectors, assess the success and challenges of existing foundational economy policies, and identify best practices both within and outside Wales. The inquiry will also examine progress in using procurement to bolster the foundational economy since 2019 and evaluate Welsh Government efforts to promote fair work in these sectors, while identifying areas for further action, including collaboration with the UK Government.

    Woodknowledge Wales will emphasise the need for Welsh Government to adopt a more flexible and localised approach in driving systemic change, particularly within the timber and forestry sectors. While general Acts provide important frameworks, sector-specific policies and targeted financial support for innovators (regardless of public or private sector) will enable more effective change. Welsh Government should focus less on top-down control and more on empowering independent actors to implement these initiatives.

    “Radical ideas like the Foundational Economy (and other initiatives such as the Well-being of Future Generations Act) are in danger of being discredited by poor implementation,” wrote Gary.

    The Foundational Economy, if poorly executed, risks being dismissed as irrelevant to businesses and communities. Instead of focusing on abstract economic concepts, Welsh Government should prioritise practical, tangible outcomes at the sectoral and local levels. One significant opportunity lies in the overlap between the Foundational Economy and decarbonisation efforts. Using locally sourced timber for construction offers both economic growth, especially in rural areas, and a low-cost, technically feasible method for reducing greenhouse gases. However, this opportunity is underused due to limited policy incentives.

    “The Timber Industrial Strategy when created and implemented could be a game changer for Wales, if underpinned by a focus on the doing,” wrote Gary.

    Cross-departmental coordination within Welsh Government is essential for supporting initiatives like the Foundational Economy, National Forest, and Timber Industrial Strategy. Woodknowledge Wales highlights the success of the Foundational Economy Challenge Fund in fostering progress within its network, particularly through the establishment of its Communities of Practice. They advocate for more agile, independent actors to take the lead in developing and implementing sector-specific projects.

    Best practices can be seen in projects like Delivering Net Zero, which emerged through bottom-up momentum within the housing sector. Expanding afforestation and timber use in construction are key decarbonization strategies that could also deliver foundational economic outcomes, especially in rural Wales. However, rigid regulations and a lack of a comprehensive land-use strategy hinder tree planting efforts. A more flexible approach, where landowners have greater agency, could accelerate progress.

    “Tree planting is being held back by risk-averse interpretation of regulations and by the lack of an overall Land Use Strategy that incorporates an understanding of the impact of the changing climate,” wrote Gary.

    To enhance public procurement’s impact on the Foundational Economy, public bodies must move beyond risk-averse practices. While regulations provide structure, conservative procurement behaviours limit meaningful change. Practical procurement guidance from Woodknowledge Wales already exists, but the slow pace of change highlights the need for a combination of regulatory imperatives and hands-on support to drive high-performance, low-carbon outcomes.

    Driving innovation and collaboration: key takeaways from WoodBUILD 2024 for forestry and timber experts

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    WoodBUILD 2024 was a landmark event that brought together leaders from the forestry sector, academia, and the timber industry to explore the future of sustainable timber use in construction.

    Held on July 2-3 at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) in Swansea, and hosted by Woodknowledge Wales with support from Morgan Sindall Construction, the conference served as a dynamic platform for sharing insights, discussing innovations, and addressing challenges in the sector.

    Here are details of key takeaways for forestry and timber professionals from this year’s conference and how the industry can drive innovation and collaboration.

    Key Themes and Insights

    The conference commenced with an engaging Ministerial address by Huw Irranca-Davies MS, The Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change & Rural Affairs (Ysgrifennydd y Cabinet dros Newid Hinsawdd), setting an optimistic tone for the discussions and workshops that followed. The event featured an immersive film experience, hands-on workshops, and thought-provoking plenary sessions. These activities delved into critical topics such as sustainable forestry practices, regenerative construction, and advanced timber applications.

    An immersive woodland film

    Created by Jamie Brookes at Landspan an immersive woodland experience introduced visitors to the world of immersive film and its application for engagement and visual display of LiDAR maps. Through dynamic imagery and thoughtful narration, the film underscored the critical importance of sustainable forest management and conservation.

    Collaborative discussion for problem solving

    On the first day, the plenary session “Pushing Boundaries – Communities of Action,” led by Christiane Lellig, Specialist Advisor Regenerative Systems Change, Woodknowledge Wales, proved particularly influential. This session was instrumental in transforming insights into actionable strategies for enhancing the wood value chain and construction practices. Key discussions centred around carbon management, sustainable forestry techniques, and the complexities of timber use in modern construction. Topics explored included fire safety, workforce skills, and the benefits and drawbacks of using Western Hemlock. The session emphasised the need for continuous dialogue and joint problem-solving to address the evolving challenges and opportunities within the industry.

    The workshops at WoodBUILD 2024 provided valuable practical solutions and insights for tackling key issues in forestry and timber use:

    Welsh Government’s Timber Industrial Strategy

    The Welsh Government presented work to date on its Timber Industrial Strategy (TIS) and used the opportunity to gather further industry feedback. The TIS aims to bolster the domestic timber sector by increasing sustainable forest management and promoting timber use in construction. It emphasises enhancing local supply chains, supporting innovation, and fostering industry collaboration to boost economic growth and environmental benefits. This strategy aligns with WoodBUILD 2024’s focus on sustainable timber solutions and will offer valuable guidance and case studies on how to increase the economic impact of Wales’s forest industries.

    Sustainable Forest Management: Hosted by Anna Dauksta, Forestry and Timber Project Manager, Woodknowledge Wales, this workshop highlighted the urgent need for improved timber marketing strategies, effective biodiversity management, and enhanced woodland management practices. Recommendations included shifting NRW’s timber sales approach towards a more marketing-focused model, conducting a comprehensive biodiversity census, and fostering community involvement in woodland management. These actions aim to optimize timber use and ensure sustainable forest practices.

    Circular to Regenerative Construction was led by headline sponsors, Morgan Sindall Construction. This session highlighted the importance of adopting a holistic design approach and fostering broad collaboration within the construction industry. The workshop stressed the need to simplify regenerative principles and address policy barriers to promote more sustainable and circular building practices. Participants discussed the benefits of moving beyond traditional capital cost considerations and embracing a collective effort for meaningful progress in construction.

    Future Generations in Forestry addressed the challenge of attracting young talent to the forestry and timber industries. Strategies discussed included leveraging social media for outreach, offering competitive career benefits, and creating engaging opportunities for Generation Z. The session highlighted the importance of making forestry careers appealing and dynamic, showcasing diverse career paths, and using influencers to shift perceptions and attract new talent.

    Natural Fibre Insulation focused on the benefits of natural fibres in construction, this session emphasized their advantages in thermal performance, moisture control, and indoor air quality. Despite being a rapidly growing insulation segment in the UK, challenges such as limited availability and insufficient industry awareness hinder broader adoption. The workshop called for improved communication and regulation of embodied carbon, as well as the integration of energy modelling to advance sustainable building practices.

    Timber 101 provided an in-depth look at the properties and potential of home-grown timber. Three of the UK’s top wood scientists; Dr. Dan Ridley-Ellis from Edinburgh Napier University, Dr. Morwenna Spear of Bangor University’s BioComposites Centre, and Phil O’Leary from Filros Timber Consultancy discussed wood’s variability, moisture content, and strength grading. The session highlighted the need for better communication between researchers and industry professionals, improved grading practices, and expanding the use of different timber species. Challenges such as the scarcity of wood scientists and extensive testing requirements were also addressed. The workshop advocated for innovative solutions to enhance timber’s role in sustainable construction.

    Managing Forests in a Changing Climate focused on the impact of climate change on forest management. Key discussions included managing risks like pests and drought, planning for future climate conditions, and implementing adaptive management practices. The workshop raised the importance of maintaining diverse species, improving monitoring systems, and adopting flexible regulations to adapt to changing climate conditions. It also highlighted gaps in understanding forest resilience and the need for reinvestment in forestry to support long-term sustainability.

    Circular Economy and Sustainable Schools’ Challenge explored practical examples of timber reuse in schools, specifically at Ysgol Bontnewydd. Discussions included timber grading, repurposing, and the establishment of re-manufacture facilities and salvage networks. The session revealed a need for better standards, stronger networks, and the integration of circular economy principles into training and policies. Emphasis was placed on modular design, material reduction, and engaging local communities and students in sustainability initiatives.

    Gwynfaen: A Case Study in Low Carbon Development provided an update on the Gwynfaen social housing project, which has focused on using timber to reduce whole life carbon emissions. The session highlighted innovations in timber panel assembly, insulation, and cladding that have improved efficiency and performance. Challenges and successes in the project were discussed, with future evaluations planned to monitor home performance and occupant experiences to ensure project goals are met.

    Development of Embodied Carbon and Footprint Assessment Tools was co-hosted by The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP) and Woodknowledge Wales. It introduced new tools for assessing embodied carbon and carbon footprints. The session underscored challenges such as balancing simplicity with accuracy in assessments and effectively accounting for biogenic carbon. Participants called for ongoing refinement of these tools and their integration into early project planning to address climate change effectively.

    A call for ongoing dialogue

    WoodBUILD 2024 highlighted the crucial role of innovation, collaboration, and strategic action in the forestry and timber sectors. The event underscored the significance of integrating Welsh timber in construction and emphasised the need for skills development and teamwork to overcome industry challenges and advance sustainable practices.

    The conference provided valuable insights that call for ongoing dialogue, practical solutions, and a unified approach to improving timber use and forest management. By embracing these strategies and fostering collaborative efforts, the forestry and timber sectors can make significant strides toward a more sustainable and resilient future.

    WoodBUILD 2024 presentations can now be downloaded from the event page. For more information on how to become a member of Woodknowledge Wales and join this critical ongoing conversation, please contact Rachel Cook or visit woodknowledge.wales