NHBC has brought together some of the development leaders of the housing association sector to share their thoughts on this increasingly important part of the construction industry
Available in print and to download, Built. On Insight – A Collection of Industry Insights from Leaders in Housing Association Development has been produced to shine a light on the important work of housing associations.
With private renters feeling the squeeze of the cost-of-living crisis and increasing numbers of people seeking social housing, the important contribution made by social housing providers cannot be underestimated.
Social housing has shed the image of dated, bland, and unimaginative tower blocks from the 1960s and now often feature beautiful aesthetics, great design, and innovative construction methods. The industry leaders featured in the collection share their motivations, experience and look to the future of the sector.
The state of the housing system
Examining the current state of the sector and the challenges faced by housing associations, as well as looking to the future of social housing, this collection covers everything from attitudes towards affordable housing, construction methods, diversity, the role of for-profit providers, and more.
Contributions have been sought from development leaders at some of the biggest housing providers, including L&Q, Places for People, and Clarion, among others.
Timely consideration is given to the changing needs of residents, cost-effective construction, and how to futureproof new homes. Contributors also share insight on planning hurdles, the role of women in the sector, and how service delivery can be improved.
COVID-19 may have affected social housing development
Many contributors touch on the effect the pandemic has had on social housing development, discussing how Covid showed where improvements could be made to design shared spaces and amenities.
Contemporary tastes are considered, too, with contributors talking about the importance of creating homes people want to live in and settle in for the long term.
The realities of the current economic climate are acknowledged. Where previously housing providers had access to cheap borrowing and easy availability of skills and materials, they’re now experiencing higher costs for financing and development, with shortages of ready labour.
At a time when the need for housing associations is at its highest, these obstacles are slowing the development of new stock. This means the sector’s development leaders need to consider every new project with care, ensuring value for money.
The collection also gives insight into the motivations of its contributors; from personal backgrounds and early careers right through to their hopes for tomorrow, this publication portrays the people, as well as the developments they lead.
Charlie Ash, sector lead for housing associations at NHBC, said: “Access to quality social housing has been a cornerstone of British society for decades, and the services offered by housing associations are essential for millions of people.
“It’s heartening to learn, despite a very challenging financial environment, our contributors have an optimistic outlook, albeit tempered with a healthy realism.
“New considerations, such as the green agenda and decarbonisation, are being enthusiastically embraced, and Modern Methods of Construction are being given serious thought – this forward-thinking attitude and a thirst to achieve shines through in our contributors’ words.”
NHBC’s core purpose is to raise standards in housebuilding and drive excellence in construction. Its dedicated affordable housing team works with housing associations and local authorities to deliver quality new homes, providing unrivaled expertise from early-stage planning through to completion.
Built. On insight – A Collection of Industry Insights from Leaders in Housing Association Development is available to download on the NHBC website at nhbc.co.uk/ha-insights.
Charlie Ash
Sector lead for housing associations
NHBC
