The NHS is embarking on a major expansion of its use of modular construction through the NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) Modular Buildings 3 Framework, launched earlier this year.

The framework simplifies how hospitals, trusts, and public-sector bodies can procure modular solutions — marking a clear shift towards faster, more flexible, and sustainable building methods.

For UK modular suppliers, the implications are significant. The NHS is one of the largest public-sector investors in infrastructure, and this framework opens doors for those offering portable buildings, temporary offices, and prefabricated welfare facilities that meet rigorous standards.

A New Era for Public-Sector Procurement

Historically, public projects have been slowed by lengthy tender processes and compliance barriers. The new framework cuts through much of that red tape, allowing approved suppliers to deliver buildings for healthcare, education, and emergency sectors without protracted procurement delays.

For the modular industry, this means greater opportunities for companies capable of supplying bespoke modular solutions, canteens, and changing rooms — all of which can be installed quickly and configured to precise specifications.

This isn’t just a win for suppliers. It also represents a major leap forward for the NHS, which has long battled delays in infrastructure upgrades and new facility construction.

Why Modular Works for Healthcare

Healthcare environments demand agility. From additional testing facilities and staff rest areas to vaccination hubs and clinics, the ability to expand capacity rapidly has become crucial.
Modular buildings meet that challenge head-on — delivering high-quality, ready-to-use spaces with minimal disruption to existing operations.

In the wake of the pandemic, many NHS trusts recognised the effectiveness of modular structures in meeting urgent space requirements without compromising standards.
These lessons have shaped the new framework, ensuring future projects can be delivered faster, greener, and with consistent quality assurance.

Opportunities for the Private Sector

While designed primarily for public bodies, the NHS modular framework also sets a benchmark that the private sector can follow.
Businesses that align with NHS-level standards can benefit from improved credibility, sustainability credentials, and operational efficiency.

For instance, logistics, manufacturing, and education providers are already adopting portable modular buildings as a cost-effective way to expand operations or improve staff facilities.
By mirroring the NHS’s approach, these organisations can demonstrate compliance with best practices in health, safety, and environmental responsibility.

Sustainability at the Core

One of the standout features of the new framework is its strong emphasis on sustainability.
Suppliers must demonstrate eco-conscious sourcing, low-carbon production, and waste reduction — all areas where modular construction naturally excels.

Because modular units can be reused and relocated, their lifecycle impact is dramatically reduced. Refurbished units, in particular, offer an environmentally responsible way to extend building use without starting from scratch.

The NHS’s embrace of modular aligns with the UK’s wider net-zero carbon strategy, positioning off-site construction as a cornerstone of greener infrastructure.

The Future of Modular Supply

The Modular Buildings 3 Framework is a clear signal that modular construction has entered the mainstream.

By standardising procurement and quality assurance, it paves the way for broader adoption across the entire UK public sector — and beyond.

Suppliers who can deliver compliant, adaptable, and sustainable modular solutions now stand at the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry.

As both public and private sectors look for smarter ways to build, prefabricated and portable buildings are emerging not as a temporary fix, but as a permanent part of Britain’s construction future.

If you’re considering installing a new roof or repairing an existing one, understanding some basics about commercial roofing will be helpful. Read on to learn more.

Types of Commercial Roofing

There are various types of commercial roofing materials, each serving different needs. Common types include:

Flat Roofing

Flat roofs are a staple of commercial buildings, dominating urban skylines with their sleek, uniform design. The benefits of flat roofs are twofold: they provide easy access for maintenance, allowing workers to move freely across the roof’s surface, and they use less material than pitched roofs, making them a cost-effective option for builders.

Pitched Roofing

Pitched roofs, with their sloping design, offer superior water drainage and a more traditional aesthetic. They can be more durable and visually appealing than flat roofs, as seen in the charming, snow-covered chalets of the Swiss Alps.

The pitched roofs of these mountain lodges not only add to their charm but also provide a safe and sturdy barrier against the harsh alpine weather. Furthermore, pitched roofs can be designed to complement a building’s architecture, as exemplified by the majestic grandeur of the White House in Washington D.C.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are renowned for their exceptional durability and ability to resist harsh weather conditions, making them an ideal choice for buildings in areas prone to extreme weather. The Sydney Opera House, with its gleaming, metallic roof, is a testament to the material’s strength and versatility.

Built-Up Roofing

Built-up roofs, composed of multiple layers of materials, offer unparalleled protection from leaks and a long lifespan. This roofing works best for big commercial buildings like shopping malls and factories.

A strong and dependable roofing system is key here. A built-up roof has several layers that create a watertight seal. This keeps the building dry and secure, even during heavy rain.

Installation of Commercial Roofing

The installation of commercial roofing should always be handled by professionals. Professional commercial roofing contractors in Alhambra, CA, have the expertise to assess your needs and recommend the best materials for your building. They ensure that the installation process complies with local codes and safety regulations.

During this process, contractors will prepare the roof’s surface, install the roofing material, and ensure a proper seal. The durability and reliability of your roof often depend on the skill and knowledge of the installation team.

Factors to Consider During Installation

Several factors play a role in the successful installation of commercial roofing. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions.

The architectural design can influence the type of roofing material used. Some materials work better with specific styles.

Your local weather conditions affect roofing choices. For instance, areas with heavy rainfall may require different materials than those in dry climates.

While it’s essential to have a quality roof, staying within budget is crucial. Discuss options with your contractor to find a suitable solution.

Repairing Your Commercial Roof

Over time, wear and tear can affect your commercial roof. Regular inspections are vital for detecting issues early. Common problems include leaks, damaged flashing, or missing shingles. Immediate repair can prevent small issues from escalating into costly ones.

If you notice signs of damage, it’s important to contact experienced commercial roofing contractors. They can provide comprehensive inspections and necessary repairs to extend your roof’s life.

Maintenance of Commercial Roofs

Preventive maintenance is one of the best ways to ensure your roof’s longevity. Scheduling regular inspections allows professionals to spot potential problems before they worsen. This proactive approach can save money in the long run and keep your business running smoothly.

Maintenance tasks may include cleaning debris, checking for leaks, and ensuring drainage systems are working properly. By keeping your roof well-maintained, you can maximize its lifespan and effectiveness.

Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor

Finding the right roofing contractor for your project is crucial. Look for professionals who have experience in commercial roofing and positive customer reviews. It’s helpful to ask for references to gauge their work quality.

A reliable contractor will also provide warranties on their work and the materials used. This demonstrates their commitment to customer satisfaction and quality assurance. Always ensure that the contractors you hire are licensed and insured.

The Importance of Commercial Roofing

Having a quality commercial roof is not just about aesthetics; it’s about protection. A good roof provides security against adverse weather, enhances energy efficiency, and can even improve your property’s value. Additionally, having a well-maintained roof can reduce unexpected repair costs.

Signs Your Roof Needs Attention

Recognizing the signs that your roof requires repair or replacement is essential for maintaining your commercial property. Look out for the following indicators:

Leaks

Watch for dripping water or stains on ceilings and walls. These signs often mean there are water leaks in your building. This could mean that rainwater or melting snow is seeping through your roof, causing damage to the underlying structure and potentially leading to mold growth, warped flooring, or electrical issues.

Visible Damage

Perform regular roof inspections to catch potential problems early. Check for missing shingles. They can make your roof weak against the weather. Also, look for cracked materials. These might harm your roof’s strength.

Age of the Roof

If your roof is nearing the end of its expected lifespan, consider having it inspected by a professional to assess its condition. An asphalt shingle roof usually lasts about 20 to 30 years. This can change based on climate, maintenance, and material quality.

Energy Costs

Keep a close eye on your energy bills, as a sudden increase may suggest that your roof is not performing efficiently. A damaged or poorly insulated roof can let heat escape in winter and enter in summer. This makes your HVAC system work harder, which raises your energy costs.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient roofing systems can significantly reduce energy costs for commercial buildings. Proper insulation, reflective materials, and green roofing options are some ways to enhance energy efficiency. Businesses today are increasingly focused on sustainability, making this an attractive option.

The Future of Commercial Roofing

In summary, commercial roofing is a vital aspect of maintaining a functional and secure business space. As you consider your options, always consult with professional commercial roofing contractors in Alhambra, CA. Their expertise will guide you in making the best choices for your commercial property’s needs.

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Choosing the right industrial roof panel can make a big difference in how your building holds up over time. With so many options out there, it’s important to find panels that offer the right mix of strength, performance, and value.

Whether the space is large or small, there’s a solution that fits. From metal panels to insulated choices, each type brings its own benefits. Don’t settle for less-find the panel that supports the demands of your facility and keeps everything running smoothly.

Ready to explore the top solutions? Keep reading!

Standing Seam Metal Panels

Standing seam metal panels are a strong choice for many buildings. These panels have raised seams that lock together, helping to keep out rain and dirt. The seams also let the metal move a little as the weather changes, which helps stop cracks or damage.

This type of roof looks neat and lasts a long time. It works well on both flat and steep roofs. Many people choose it because it stays strong in the wind and bad weather. It also needs little care. If you need strong and trusted roofing parts, take a look at https://www.butlerbuildingparts.co/.

Corrugated Metal Panels

Strong shapes and simple design make corrugated metal panels a smart choice for many buildings. These panels have a wave-like pattern that adds strength and helps rain slide off easily.

They are light but still tough, making them easy to install and able to last for years. These panels work well for factories, barns, and other large spaces. Their simple look fits many styles, and they don’t need much care.

They also handle wind and bad weather well. With the right choice in materials and design, it’s easier to feel confident about the roof over your facility.

Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs)

Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) are a good roofing choice for buildings that need better control of heat and cold. Each panel has two metal layers with thick foam in the middle. The foam helps keep warm air inside during winter and blocks heat during summer.

This can help lower energy bills and make the space more comfortable. These panels also block noise and keep out water. They are strong, easy to install, and last a long time.

Many people use them for storage buildings, factories, and food areas. Because they are easy to care for and work well in all seasons, IMPs are a smart pick for many types of buildings.

Ribbed Steel Panels

Ribbed steel panels are made with deep lines that add extra strength. These panels hold up well under heavy use and tough weather. They work well for large buildings like factories or storage spaces.

The ribbed shape helps rain flow off the roof fast and adds support across wide areas. These panels are also known for lasting a long time with little care. Their strong build makes them a trusted choice for many kinds of industrial buildings.

Choosing the Right Roof Panels Makes All the Difference

Choosing the right roof panels helps protect your facility and keeps it running smoothly. The right materials offer strength, weather resistance, and long-lasting performance. Each type of panel has its own benefits to match your building’s needs.

Taking time to pick the best solution means fewer repairs and better energy use. With the right choice, your facility stays safe and strong for years to come.

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Purchase Pre-Engineered

Steel farm buildings come in a variety of prefabricated designs. Although some farmers prefer to invest in custom built models, there are a wide range of pre-engineered buildings out there that are perfect for housing livestock. Cows, pigs, sheep, and horses can all benefit from easy to assemble storage. Furthermore, streamlining of the entire production process allows steel building manufacturers to reduce material costs and these savings can then be passed on to you as the buyer.

Pre-engineered steel buildings are still built by the same highly skilled and trained steel specialists, so it is sometimes possible to cut costs even further by making small reductions or changes to designs as appropriate. Above all, pre-engineered farming structures can arrive ready to assemble, ensuring that less time is wasted assembling your steel building. If you are particularly handy, you might even be able to erect and build a pre-engineered steel building on your own, eliminating the need to pay for professional help to do so.

Think Long Term

When purchasing a farm building, it can be tempting to go with the cheapest design. However, it is in your best interests to take into consideration the longevity of your investment. For example, whereas pole barn house options are often more affordable than steel buildings, the long-term maintenance and replacement costs for a building made from wood are often higher when compared to a similar structure made from metal.

When looked after carefully, pole barns can last for a long time. That being said, pole barn constructions made of wood are still susceptible to rot, termites, and insects. Furthermore, pressure treated wood has the potential to warp or shrink depending on the climate and other elements the building might be exposed to. In contrast, steel buildings are not only mold resistant, but typically come with a structural warranty. Above all, when purchasing a farm building, always take into consideration any potential damage risks and whether or not spending a little more initially could end up saving you money further down the line.

Pick a Durable, High-Grade Steel

Although spending more money outright on quality materials can seem counterintuitive where saving money is concerned, in fact, by investing in high-grade steel now, your farm building is more likely to hold up over time. Overall, steel is more hard wearing than alternatives such as timber or concrete, making it a perfect choice for farming and other agricultural buildings, including stainless steel racking for efficient storage solutions.

Buying a more expensive steel can also save you money when looking for insurance. Insurance companies widely recognise that stronger structures are more resistant to fire and the elements, so it typically costs less to insure buildings made from quality steels. Additionally, depending on your location, a steel building expert might even be able to supply geographic specific information on where to find the best steel based on metal load capacity and performance.

Ultimately, whether you are purchasing your very first steel farm building or expanding your existing space, it is crucial that you compare a few different options to make sure that you make the best decision for you and your budget.

When building any kind of structure, the materials you use can have a huge impact on your success. Check out this blog post for 3 things to consider when choosing building materials for your home.

The Construction Apprenticeships 2025: Challenges. Opportunities. Support report reveals that 1,450 women began a construction apprenticeship in 2018-19, rising to 2,420 in 2023-24—a 67% increase.

The trend extends beyond enrollment, with the number of women completing their apprenticeships also seeing remarkable growth. In 2018-19, 340 women completed their training, a figure that jumped by more than 170% to 930 in 2023-24.

CITB is encouraging more women to consider careers in construction, aiming to sustain this momentum and foster greater diversity in the industry.

This rise in female starters and completions suggests a future with greater gender diversity in the construction industry. Changing attitudes towards gender roles and the introduction of policies aimed at promoting gender equality will help further decrease the gender and skills gaps.

The findings are a positive sign for the construction industry, and CITB intends to build upon this. Earlier this week, the company launched the 2025 iteration of the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards. Additionally, in its recent Strategic Plan 2025 – 29, CITB listed one of its key objectives is to inspire and enable diverse and skilled people into construction.

CITB intends to promote construction careers to over 5 million potential new entrants, highlighting that there are over 180 different occupations in the industry. Similarly, there are over 100 different construction apprenticeship roles that lead to careers in the industry for people at every stage of their career.

Lucie Wright, Head of Careers Strategy at CITB, said:

“We need more women in construction. It’s incredibly heartening to see the number of women starting construction apprenticeships increasing – long may this continue. As an industry, we need to actively promote to as diverse a range of applicants as possible and make sure we get the conditions for working in the industry right for as many different people as possible.

“We recently launched the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2025, back for the fourth year running. The programme is one of the ways we strive to recognise the wonderful women and allies who are driving real change in the construction industry.

“For any women thinking about their career options, I and CITB urge you to consider a career in construction. There’s so much to admire about the industry, and it’s a great place for women to work and thrive.”

As part of the celebrations, CITB welcomed Graeme Dey MSP, Minister for Higher and Further Education, to its National Construction College (NCC) in Inchinnan, Renfrewshire. During his visit, the Minister toured the facilities, observed apprentices at work, and engaged with both apprentices and employers to discuss their experiences.

CITB’s Strategic Plan for 2025–29 includes a commitment of over £550 million to attract and support a diverse and skilled workforce in the construction sector. This investment includes ongoing grants to support employers in hiring apprentices.

Between April 2023 and March 2025, CITB has allocated nearly £150 million in apprenticeship grants to support the next generation of construction professionals.

A significant portion of this support benefited micro and small businesses, with close to 8,000 employers with fewer than 50 employees receiving funding. This demonstrates the wide-reaching impact of CITB’s apprenticeship grants in helping construction firms of all sizes invest in skilled talent.

CITB has committed nearly £150 million in apprenticeship funding between April 2023 and March 2025, with over £50 million already distributed to employers in the current financial year.

This year’s National Apprenticeship Week theme, ‘Skills for Life,’ is particularly relevant to the construction industry. With more than 180 different occupations and over 100 construction apprenticeship pathways, individuals at any stage of their career can develop lifelong skills and secure a future in the sector.

CITB’s New Entrant Support Team (NEST) has also supported over 3,500 new apprenticeship starts between April to December 2024 – more than doubling the number of new apprentices they’ve helped join the industry compared to the previous period. NEST provides hands-on, free support to help employers recruit apprentices.

Additionally, CITB’s National Construction College (NCC) has seen their overall achievement rate for apprenticeships increase for three years running and is on track to make it four, with achievement rates for 2024-25 poised to reach the 70% target by the end of the financial year. This will be 16% above the national average and, importantly, 92% of people completing their apprenticeships through the NCC stay in the industry, demonstrating the significant impact CITB’s NCC improvement programme has had.

Deb Madden, Executive Director for Nations Engagement at CITB, said: “A career in construction is an incredibly fulfilling one that I encourage everyone to consider. Nothing beats the valuable skills to be learnt, the sense of accomplishment seeing a project completed, and the well-paid roles that are available. There’s a misconception that construction jobs don’t pay well, but this simply isn’t true – the average UK construction worker’s salary is over £44,000, almost £9,000 higher than the average UK salary.

 “It’s fantastic to see the impact CITB’s New Entrant Support Team and National Construction College are having, supporting learners to gain skills for life and employers to grow their business.

 “If you’re interested in pursuing an apprenticeship or hiring an apprentice, I urge you to get in contact with CITB to find out how we can support you.”

The partnership offers SME housebuilders a combination of equity and senior debt, with Barwood Capital supplying the equity and CBPF providing senior debt. This allows builders to secure more land and increase home production. The model has already seen success on over 20 sites, helping deliver 230 homes with a Gross Development Value (GDV) of £130 million.

Most recently, Hurst & Hurst Estates utilised the loan partnership for a development in the New Forest National Park. This project, with a GDV of £13.5 million, will deliver 46 energy-efficient homes on a six-acre site—50% of which will be affordable housing. The development addresses critical housing needs in a picturesque rural location.

Barwood Capital are also currently partnering with Surrey-based housebuilder Kidbrook Homes, on a luxury apartment scheme in Kingston Hill overlooking Richmond Park, also funded by Close Brothers. Kidbrook were the first SME to work with Barwood Capital on this bespoke model and a recent acquisition in Godalming makes this the eleventh development project they have acquired together.

Equity and finance have long been cited as major barriers to entry and growth for SME housebuilders. In fact, 27% of SMEs identify development finance as a major barrier to delivery . As a result, by removing that barrier, this groundbreaking model has the potential to boost SME housebuilding production at a time when supply is historically low.

Simon Davey, Business Development Director, Close Brothers Property Finance, commented: “SMEs are known for delivering high-quality, sustainable homes that create significant economic benefits for local communities by leveraging local supply chains and apprentices. By partnering with Barwood Capital to create this new lending model, we’re able to provide SME housebuilders with access to both senior debt and equity whilst diversifying risk and removing key barriers to development opportunities—all at a time when the housing shortage remains acute.”

Steve Chambers, Director and Head of Residential, Barwood Capital added: “Barwood Capital has been partnering with SME housebuilders for over 10  years, by providing equity for their projects and working together to deliver some exceptional family homes across the UK.  Our tried and tested funding model with Close Brothers, will expedite our existing developer partnerships and generate new ones, which will only bolster the UK’s requirement for new homes.”

The company’s recent successes include project wins in Leeds, Liverpool, and Manchester. To support its growing portfolio, Zerum has welcomed Pheobe Threlfall as associate director in planning and promoted Luke Bishop to projects director in the project management team.

These strategic team additions follow a successful year for Zerum, highlighted by major contract wins. Recent achievements include Blacklight’s acquisition of the Devon Street student accommodation project in Liverpool, a 700-unit build-to-rent scheme in Leeds, and Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust’s Health Technology Innovation Hub. The company has also secured several new development opportunities in Manchester City Centre with Relentless Developments.

Nikki Sills, planning partner, commented “We’re delighted to add Phoebe to the team, which strengthens our planning offering even further following several recent hires.   Phoebe has an excellent background in delivering and assisting on major mixed-use schemes, which will be of great value to our wide and varied client base in the North of England and beyond.”

Founded in 2013, Zerum Group operates nationally via its offices located in Manchester and Leeds. The company undertakes consultancy services offering planning; development management; project management; cost management; and highways and sustainable travel services.

Andrew Duffy, partner, added: “Zerum enjoyed a hugely successful 2024 and we are very pleased to be starting the year with a whole host of high-profile projects and to be further strengthening our team.

“I’m delighted to promote Luke to the position of projects director in recognition for his hard work and dedication, specifically in leading the delivery of the prestigious St. Michael’s development in Manchester City Centre.  Luke’s promotion reflects our drive to reward leadership and professionalism that is crucial to ensure we maintain the highest standard across the Zerum businesses.”

Building materials company Holcim made headlines in October 2024 as one of only three companies globally to publicly adopt science-based targets for nature. This move demonstrates that ambitious, credible action toward nature positivity is achievable, even in the building materials industry.

BAM, a signatory of the Nature Positive Business Pledge and an early member of the Supply Chain Sustainability School, is also leading the way by integrating biodiversity considerations throughout its supply chain. These examples reflect growing momentum in the construction industry to adopt nature-positive strategies and help preserve biodiversity for future generations.

Biodiversify reported a marked increase in construction companies seeking expert advice to embed Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) into their projects, particularly during the development of offices, depots, and manufacturing facilities.

The boutique consultancy has praised the industry for starting to scrutinise its supply chain, tracing the origins of raw materials such as aggregates and timber, and leveraging certification standards to make informed sourcing decisions that support biodiversity.

This emerging focus is aided by the recent work of the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) and Supply Chain Sustainability School to promote the business imperatives of sustainable procurement.

Biodiversify is currently undertaking groundbreaking work with the UKGBC to address the embodied ecological impacts that are caused by the resource extraction and manufacturing process, such as the production and transportation of raw materials and the disposal of unused materials. This work builds on the insightful 2023 report published by Expedition Engineering on ‘The Embodied Biodiversity Impacts of Construction Materials’.

Voluntary frameworks, such as the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) and the Science-Based Targets Network (SBTN), have also played a pivotal role in encouraging the construction sector to assess its relationship with nature, aided by legislative drivers including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

Daniel Oldham, Principal Consultant at Biodiversify, said: “The construction sector has made impressive progress in addressing its impact on nature, demonstrating its capacity for meaningful change.

“Voluntary nature frameworks have played a key role in helping the industry adopt robust methodologies for assessing impacts and dependencies on nature, enabling more informed and effective strategies. Many organisations are now wanting to align with science-based targets for nature, inspired by early adopters.”

“Legislation like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the upcoming European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) are providing a strong foundation. However, the construction industry can make an even greater impact by fully embracing science-based frameworks and integrating biodiversity considerations across its entire value chain.”

Biodiversify predicts that the momentum within the construction sector will continue to grow in 2025, spurred by legislative requirements and an expanding awareness of biodiversity’s critical role in business resilience.