Boosting Ireland’s Housing Supply: Modern Methods of Construction

Abstract

The need to boost housing supply has led Irish policy-makers, the construction sector and housing market interests to become increasingly focused on modern methods of construction (MMC). As an umbrella term, ‘MMC’ refers to technological advances, new product developments and building systems being delivered through increased digitalisation and emerging technologies. Materials and systems used in buildings must comply with the Building regulations and be fit for their intended use and conditions in which they are to be used. The distinct characteristic of MMC is the offsite manufacture (OSM) of buildings and their components in a factory setting and their follow-on transportation, onsite assembly and fabrication.

This report investigates the potential of MMC to significantly boost housing supply. It highlights progress under the MMC roadmap, an important and ambitious State policy designed to achieve greater adoption of MMC, which is of a high quality and complies with Building Regulations, in public housing delivery and in the housing system more widely.

Drawing on primary research, investigation and dialogue among key stakeholders, the report examines the benefits and challenges associated with MMC. It finds that greater adoption of MMC for residential development can be a ‘game changer’ for the Irish housing system, as it can drive higher productivity gains, substantially increase housing supply, and help meet the environmental goal of decarbonising housing – both new and existing stock.