The Advanced Industrialised Methods for the Construction of Homes (AIMCH) project has named Simon Dudley, interim chair of Homes England, as chair of its stakeholder group
The £6.5m AIMCH project aims to tackle the UK’s housing crisis using cost-effective Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) delivered through industrialised offsite panelised solutions.
The three-year initiative, which has been live since early 2019, has been trialling new digital design tools, manufacturing advancements, improved near-to-market offsite systems and learn site processing on live housing projects over the past 18 months.
Its ultimate goal is to support the sector in delivering 120,000 additional homes a year for the same or less costs than traditional methods, built 30% quicker and with 50% fewer defects.
AIMCH’s stakeholder group provides two-way engagement to disseminate project lessons and outcomes with industry organisations.
Challenges in a post-pandemic economy
Dudley has a wealth of experience in major construction projects, including the regeneration of Maidenhead during his three-and-a-half years as borough leader. He said: “I’m delighted to join as chair of the AIMCH project. The stakeholder group draws together key interests and views, to share learning and concerns, providing a collective approach and wider market impact to drive the uptake of MMC systems.
“AIMCH is forward-thinking and committed to delivering high quality, cost-effective housing. The AIMCH project will have an even greater role to play as the construction sector resets from Covid-19.
“The clear benefits from Modern Methods of Construction will address the challenges faced in a post-pandemic economy made more complex with Brexit and net-zero carbon goals.
“Industrialised offsite panelised solutions will act as a catalyst for a step-change in the industry. Capturing all these benefits through this project are key insights for the industry going forward.”
The AIMCH project is a collaboration between Stewart Milne Group, Barratt Developments, London & Quadrant Housing Trust, Tarmac Trading, the Manufacturing Technology Centre, the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre and Forster Roofing Services.
It is funded by UKRI and project managed by Limberger Associates.
