Spring 2026 issue M39


Welcome to the Spring issue of MMC Magazine.


As we move further into 2026, modern methods of construction continue to sit at the centre of some of the most important conversations in UK construction. From accelerating housing delivery to reshaping public sector estates and improving sustainability outcomes, MMC is no longer a “future option” but a practical response to today’s pressures.


In this issue, we take a close look at how offsite and modular approaches are evolving in real terms—not just in policy or ambition, but on live projects across the country. You’ll find insight into the growing role of MMC in education and public sector delivery, alongside analysis of capacity challenges, supply chain pressures, and the technologies helping to bridge the gap between demand and delivery.


We also explore some of the more forward-looking themes shaping the sector, including digital integration, design for adaptability, and the changing nature of construction skills.


As ever, we hope this issue provides useful perspective, practical intelligence, and a sense of where the industry is heading next.


Thanks for reading. Joe Bradbury


MMC Magazine Editor


08Why the rise of MMC doesn’t mean the decline of brick


Martin Smithurst, product development and technical support manager at Forterra, explores how new product innovations can meet current project requirements while keeping known and loved traditional brick finishes.


10Unlocking SEND Capacity: Utilising Leases & MMC for Strategic Estate Expansion


Across the UK, the education sector is grappling with an unprecedented challenge: a sharp rise in SEND demand colliding with a severe lack of physical capacity. For Multi-Academy Trusts and Local Authorities, this capacity deficit has created a financial flashpoint as budgets bleed out into expensive, out-of-area placements


28How to connect with specifiers from across the UK built environment


Before apportioning your precious budget, the most critical question to answer when surveying the marketing landscape is whether an option can help you engage the right target audience.


30Water Scarcity Could Slow Future Building Local authorities are planning for extensive housebuilding to meet government targets. However, it is estimated that in some areas 39% of Labour’s additional homes will be undeliverable due to water scarcity.


32How offsite construction is redefining certainty in an uncertain industry


The UK construction industry is no stranger to disruption, but recent years have tested its resilience in new ways. Persistent labour shortages, fluctuating material costs, and evolving regulatory demands have created a challenging operating environment.


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Sales, Press & Online Services - Sophie Clarke sclarke@datateam.co.uk Design - Ellie Rich ellie@ellierichdesign.com Administration - ACox@datateam.co.uk Circulation - datateam@c-cms.com


Publisher’s Statement. Printed in England. All rights reserved. No part of MMC may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior permission of the publisher. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of editorial content, the editor and publishers do not accept responsibility for errors or loss and damage caused by any statements, claims or observations made by contributors, authors and their agents. Published by DataTeam Business Publishing. Company Registration no. 1771113


ISSN 3033-4403 Spring 2026 M39 3


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