Brownfield sites are previously developed areas of land that are currently disused, and they are often found on the peripheries of towns and cities, or even close to the centre. In many ways, these areas are prime redevelopment sites because of their convenient situation.
Inside Housing reports that there are around 36,450 brownfield sites across the UK, which has the potential to be redeveloped into almost 1.5 million homes.
To this end, Homes England, the public body responsible for funding new affordable housing in England, has announced that it is partnering with a private finance company, Maslow Capital, to fund the redevelopment of brownfield sites for housing. This will go some way towards addressing the chronic affordable housing shortage in the UK.
Adam Baghdadi, lead of lending solutions (UK and Europe) at Maslow Capital, said: “Historically, private developers have faced significant challenges in redeveloping brownfield sites due to high clean-up costs and unforeseen geotechnical issues, which can escalate project costs.”
He added: “Through its commitment to driving regeneration, Homes England has been instrumental in overcoming these barriers and unlocking opportunities that might otherwise remain undeveloped.”
“Partnering with a government body enables us to deliver a structured funding solution with real impact – one that will not only accelerate the delivery of much-needed, high-quality homes, but also stimulate local economies.”
What are the challenges of redeveloping brownfield sites?
As Baghdadi explains, brownfield sites are not always straightforward to redevelop, which is why land that appears to be in a prime urban location is often left derelict despite its potential. One of the biggest issues is ground contamination from previous industrial use, such as asbestos, chemicals, or heavy metals, leading to high remediation costs.
Geotechnical issues are also common, as the soil may have been compacted, weakened or filled from previous use, have unstable water content, or contain previously unidentified foundations. This can make the design and engineering process more costly and complex.
Other barriers to redevelopment include disputed ownership or boundaries; access and logistics issues; and lengthy planning permission processes, which may include heritage or environmental considerations.
Why timber frames are ideal for brownfield developments
Lightweight systems
Timber frame structures are significantly lighter than brick and mortar structures with steel frames, and this means there is often less need to dig extensive ground works or deep foundations. This means that timber is a preferable choice of material for working with unpredictable ground conditions.
More streamlined logistics
Timber frames are constructed off-site and delivered ready to install, so they are ideal for urban or suburban sites where access might be limited by busy roads or nearby high rise developments. They also require less heavy plant machinery and deliveries on-site, which helps to control costs and also reduces traffic disruption and noise and air pollution.
Design flexibility
Timber frame manufacturers can easily adapt their products to a range of layouts and designs, making the potential obstacles and obstructions of brownfield sites easier to overcome. This allows for the best use of space to be made, with a tailored design that is creative and brings maximum return on investment.
Timber buildings are often very aesthetically pleasing, and this can make it easier to secure planning permission for sites where development is strictly controlled, such as those that border greenbelt land or lie within conservation areas.
Fast and efficient construction process
Timber frame projects often have much shorter timelines than traditional masonry construction. This helps to manage costs, and also minimises disruption to neighbouring businesses or residential developments.
The build process is more predictable due to the off-site manufacturing, and this reduces the risk of delays in the supply chain, and also hedges against hikes in the price of materials or labour, or disruption caused by adverse weather conditions.
Greener and more sustainable
Brownfield developments often face strict environmental regulations and requirements. Timber frame buildings contain more renewable materials and can reduce a building’s embodied carbon footprint, compared to traditional masonry buildings.
This makes it a more preferable choice for developers and local authorities who are aiming to meet net zero and sustainability targets.