The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has embarked on a ‘Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Standardisation Research and Kit of Parts’ project to develop an open-source kit of parts that will encourage the uptake of MMC and HLM Architects are leading the MMC standardisation research element of the project.
Open-source kit of parts will advance the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) across the housing sector.
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has embarked on a ‘Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) Standardisation Research and Kit of Parts’ project to develop an open-source kit of parts that will encourage the uptake of MMC.
Following through on commitments set out within the Transforming Infrastructure Performance Roadmap to 2030 and Construction Playbook, the project represents a key step by government to translate policy into practice.
Akerlof, a specialist MMC consultancy, has been appointed by DLUHC through competitive tender to lead a consortium of partners, including Buro Happold, HLM Architects and Limberger Associates, that will collectively undertake research and engagement to help shape a strategy that uses standard parts.
The focus of the project will be on MMC Categories 2 (2D primary structural systems) and 5 (non-structural assemblies and sub-assemblies). Extensive consultation with the wider industry and supply chain will ensure the solutions reflect the requirements of the sector and unlock growth within the MMC market.
Commenting on the project, Housing Minister, Rachel Maclean MP, said:
“Delivering more, better quality and greener homes is central to our levelling up mission. I encourage all industry partners to engage in this research which will harness the benefits of Modern Methods of Construction, drive up productivity in the sector and help deliver the high-quality homes this country needs.”
Anne Daw, Head of MMC Delivery said:
“Wider adoption of MMC across the industry is a key tool in our effort to reduce the environmental impact of construction. We are pleased to be able to lead the research into how strategies of standardisation can improve the uptake of MMC in the housing sector. These efforts will hopefully result in smoothing the process of design and delivery, enabling us to do more with fewer resources. Ultimately, that will result in thoughtful design and better places for people.”
Jamie Hillier, Partner at Akerlof said:
“Akerlof is delighted to be working with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, our consortium partners and the wider industry on this exciting project which will accelerate the move towards MMC within the housing sector. As a business we are committed to driving transformation that leads to a better built environment. We hope that this project will demonstrate the benefits of using common parts to create greater choice across housing and set the direction of travel for the sector.”
Gaynor Tennant, Co-Founder and Chair of the Offsite Alliance said:
“Standardisation at scale must be built on consensus. We are thrilled to support industry engagement for this project. Bringing together manufacturers, consultants, research and innovation institutes and clients to share ideas, challenges and opportunities for standardisation will ensure solutions focus on interoperability and help to unlock barriers within the market.”
Sign up to be kept informed about the project and open call: https://akerlof.co.uk/dluhc-open-call/
