Mark Farmer, Chief Executive of Cast Consultancy and author of "Modernise or Die," shares his insights on the urgent need for the housing industry to embrace modern methods of construction (MMC). He discusses the challenges posed by an aging workforce and post-Brexit labor constraints, while emphasizing that current construction methods are unsustainable. Farmer reveals the lessons from high-profile MMC failures and pushes for bold collaboration to align policies and funding. He highlights the critical importance of adapting quickly to meet sustainability and market demands.
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insights INSIGHT
Subcontracting’s Volatility
The construction industry's reliance on subcontracting creates vulnerability.
This volatile model struggles to withstand economic downturns, impacting MMC adoption.
insights INSIGHT
Regulation’s Double-Edged Sword
Regulatory changes like the Building Safety Act increase construction standards.
While improving safety, these changes also create short-term capacity challenges.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Vision Tide’s Success
Vision Tide, an integrated construction company, demonstrates MMC success.
By controlling design, manufacturing, and construction, they deliver projects faster.
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In this episode of the Urban Forecast Podcast, we’re joined by Mark Farmer, influential author of Modernise or Die and a leading voice in the housing industry. Mark dives into the hard truths about the future of housing delivery, exploring whether modern methods of construction (MMC) can truly meet the demands of 300,000 homes a year. From workforce challenges to the downfall of high-profile startups, Mark offers bold opinions and fresh perspectives on what’s needed to transform the housing sector.
Tune in to hear Mark’s take on the real roadblocks and opportunities for change in housing.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
The housing sector faces a declining workforce, exacerbated by an ageing population and post-Brexit labour restrictions.
Current methods of construction are unsustainable if we aim to deliver 300,000 homes annually.
Modern methods of construction (MMC) offer promise but come with challenges, including high fixed costs and market volatility.
High-profile MMC failures like Top Hat and Splash reveal deeper issues with the industry’s approach to scaling innovation.
The importance of long-term resilience in the housing market—short-term gains won’t solve systemic problems.
Collaboration and bold thinking are needed to align policies, funding, and innovative approaches.
Political and economic stability play a critical role in encouraging investment and growth in housing.
Mark emphasises the need for the housing industry to adapt quickly to meet sustainability and market demands.
BEST MOMENTS:
“We need to change the physical delivery model… If we’re going to do more with the same or less, we need to change the model.”
“The industry’s reliance on subcontracting clashes with the fixed costs of manufacturing. It’s a volatile model that isn’t built to withstand downturns.”
“High-profile MMC failures aren’t isolated—they’re symptomatic of an industry that hasn’t fully embraced the new ways of working needed to succeed.”
“If we don’t innovate now, we risk falling further behind in delivering sustainable, scalable housing solutions.”
Housing Crisis: Local Leaders, Bold Solutions - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6EVosyQcyE
Vision 2040: What next for the City of London’s bold vision for transformation - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YTxl537vyaQ
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Jon Ackroyd and Oliver Lowrie, the visionary hosts of Urban Forecast, bring their expertise from leading their innovative practice, Ackroyd Lowrie. Known for pushing the boundaries in urban design, Jon and Oliver use their podcast to delve into the future of cities, sharing insights from their work on projects that emphasise sustainability, community, and transformative architecture. Through Urban Forecast, they engage listeners with discussions on how architecture and design shape urban living, aiming to inspire new ways of thinking about the spaces around us.
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