8 | UK News
Trussed Rafter Association releases State of the Industry Survey results
The Trussed Rafter Association, (TRA), has unveiled the results of its second annual State of the Industry Survey.
The survey suggests that while businesses are concerned about the next 12 months, activities are likely to improve, particularly following the change in government in July 2024.
Businesses remained cautious about the future, but are starting to feel more confident about the future of the sector. Despite some concerns, there is a noticeable trend towards investing in employee growth and new technologies. Businesses in the trussed rafter industry have varied levels of confidence about
the upcoming 12 months. While 45% of respondents are “somewhat confident” and 39% feel “confident,” only 6% are “very confident” about their business outlook. In contrast, 10% are “not confident at all.” The survey indicates that many trussed rafter manufacturers and suppliers are expecting housebuilding activities to recover, with 39% of businesses expecting an increase, 55% believing it will remain steady, and only 6% anticipating a decrease. When asked about the potential impact of a government change on the housing market, 55% of respondents believed it would improve the market, and 39%
Crendon in massive solar PV project
This impressive pipeline, with a collective capacity of >2MW, spans locations from Dorset to Tyne and Wear, highlighting Crendon Timber Engineering’s commitment to environmental stewardship and operational efficiency.
Above: The 100kWp project at Crendon Timber Engineering’s East Harling branch in Norfolk
GB NRG has completed the installation of solar panels across all 15 (soon to be 16) branches of Crendon Timber Engineering, creating possibly the largest solar photovoltaic portfolio in the UK timber industry.
The initiative sets a new standard for sustainability in the timber industry, demonstrating the tangible benefits of renewable energy investments. “Our objective is to create a climate of
excellence, not only for our products and services, but for our employees, those persons affected by our activities and for the environment,” said Ed Kirk, operations, innovations and sustainability director at Crendon.
Acoustic fence panels range launched by Premier Forest Products
Reducing noise for residents and businesses is the target of a new range of acoustic fence panels being launched by leading UK timber specialist Premier Forest Products. Manufactured in the UK, the fence panels, which have been tested and rated to achieve a noise reduction of 26 decibels (dB), have been designed and engineered to reflect sound from motorways, roads, railways and other noisy environments. Premier said the Scandinavian redwood panels, measuring from 1.8m high and featuring horizontal tongue and groove ‘V’ joint boards, are also anti-climb to deter intruders. The boards are interlocked and then bonded with an acoustic sealant for
enhanced acoustic performance. Duchy Acoustic Fence is aimed at homeowners, while the Premier Reflect Acoustic Barrier is for large-scale projects where installation flexibility is needed. The wider Premier Reflect panels cover a greater area for a faster fit and are stackable up to a height of 5m. Premier Forest’s acoustic fence solutions are manufactured in accordance with BS1793 and are fully pressure treated to NHSS4 (National Highways Treatment Specification). The barriers are designed to provide solutions to scenarios ranging from houses near railway lines, to schools minimising impact on communities.
TTJ | September/October 2024 |
www.ttjonline.com
thought it would make no difference. The number of respondents unlikely to invest in new technology or new ways of working has decreased from 42% in 2023 to 10% in 2024.
A majority of TRA members are optimistic about recruitment, with 58% planning to increase their staff over the next year; and 55% feel likely to take on new apprentices in the next five years. Some 52% of respondents are actively pursuing carbon reduction as part of their current strategy. Customer enquiries about environmental and carbon savings have increased by 26%, indicating that net-zero pressures are beginning to affect suppliers.
AHEC in modular structure partnership
A three-way collaboration between Stefan Diez’s industrial design studio Diez Office, the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), and urban greening specialists OMCoC, presents an experimental proposition for a modular structure that can address rising temperatures and dwindling biodiversity in cities. Being unveiled at Chelsea School of Art during London Design Festival (September 14-22), the Vert project proposes a timber structure that helps to cool the city while integrating easily into its existing infrastructure. Tall sails covered in climbing plants work to fix carbon dioxide in the air while creating areas of cooling shade – sheltered spaces for people to pause. Built from sustainable materials, Vert combines aesthetic appeal with tangible environmental benefits, and represents a transformative approach to urban development.
The structure is predominantly made from red oak glulam.
Above: Vert render Image: Diez Office
UK News
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