Eight case studies showcase how Welsh timber and innovation are delivering sustainable, scalable solutions for housing, manufacturing and forestry in support of national strategy
A new set of case studies published by Woodknowledge Wales demonstrates how timber-based construction is already delivering social, environmental and economic value across Wales.
Spanning housing development, manufacturing innovation, forestry collaboration and circular economy practice, these case studies are Home-Grown Homes project outputs and were produced to support the Timber Industrial Strategy for Wales. They provide evidence of practical solutions that can be scaled across the country to meet low carbon ambitions, regenerate local economies and enhance supply chain resilience.
“These are not pilots. These are proven approaches—already underway—that show how we can build better, more sustainable homes.”
— Gary Newman, Chief Executive, Woodknowledge Wales
The case studies form part of our growing open-access resource hub and are relevant to housing associations, manufacturers, policymakers, landowners and anyone working to transform Wales’ built environment.
Housing: Gwynfaen, Penyrheol
Developed by Pobl Group, Gwynfaen is a 144-home neighbourhood near Swansea designed around sustainability and wellbeing. The project uses offsite-manufactured timber panels, woodfibre insulation and a combustion-free design approach. It offers a practical model for delivering climate-resilient, affordable homes in line with the aims of both the Home-Grown Homes project and the Timber Industrial Strategy.
Manufacturer: Tai Tarian and SO Modular
This case study showcases an innovative partnership between a housing provider and a local timber manufacturer. Funded in part by the Welsh Government’s Innovative Housing Programme, the project has enabled significant investment in MMC and Welsh timber processing capacity. It strengthens local supply chains and supports circular, low-carbon housing delivery.
Grower: Small sawmillers’ collaboration
A group of small-scale sawmillers in north and mid Wales joined forces to secure access to more than 200 tonnes of Douglas fir from the Welsh Government Woodland Estate. This collaboration supports the development of a diverse and regionally distributed supply chain—key to the Home-Grown Homes project vision and a resilient timber economy.
Circular economy: Kronospan and MDF Recovery
Two case studies illustrate how circular economy principles are being embedded in the timber industry. Kronospan’s Chirk plant manufactures board products with up to 90% recycled content, while MDF Recovery is developing a technology to reclaim fibres from waste MDF. These advances are central to delivering a net zero built environment.
Processor: Pontrilas Sawmills
As one of the UK’s largest independent sawmills, Pontrilas Sawmills processes Welsh-grown timber for structural use in construction. Their investment in advanced grading and sawing technology demonstrates how the private sector can support the goals of the Timber Industrial Strategy—by enabling higher-value use of local timber.
Farmer: Tyn y Rhos woodland creation
This project shows how farmers can diversify into timber production in ways that align with climate and nature goals. By planting woodland on under-utilised land, the farm increases biodiversity, improves landscape resilience and creates long-term economic opportunities. It supports the development of a more circular and sustainable rural economy.
Delivering net zero: Tai ar y Cyd
This national collaboration brings together 23 housing associations working to deliver new homes that are zero-carbon in operation and constructed using low-carbon, renewable materials. It offers shared tools and practical lessons to support design, procurement and performance—directly supporting both Home-Grown Homes outcomes and Timber Industrial Strategy objectives.
Access all case studies
These eight case studies are available in full on the Woodknowledge Wales case study hub, alongside technical guidance, procurement tools and policy resources.
