Timber industry to spearhead implementation of key government policy

Working in partnership, the Structural Timber Association (STA), Timber Development UK (TDUK) and the Confederation of Forest Industries (Confor) have been appointed joint Secretariat of the Government’s Timber in Construction (TiC) Policy Roadmap working group, in a bid to expedite delivery of this critical industry plan.

The TiC roadmap – published by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) in December last year – is the culmination of many months of collaboration between Government and industry and sets out a framework for increasing the use of timber in construction.

Having already worked together as key contributors to the development of the policy document, the three organisations are well placed to bring their shared expertise to its execution. All three organisations were integral to the creation of the policy roadmap and collectively represent the full spectrum of timber industries.

Crucially, the Secretariat role will be tasked with leading the development and implementation of solid plans to deliver each of the seven key priorities identified within the roadmap, which cover demand, supply, building safety, labour and skills, carbon, insurance, and innovation.

Andrew Carpenter, Chief Executive of the Structural Timber Association, commented: “I am pleased that DEFRA has recognised the importance of ‘boots on the ground’ expertise and has given us this vital opportunity to shape delivery of such a key piece of policy. Drawing on the combined experience and practical knowledge each organisation bring to the table, we have an exciting part to play in driving these policy goals forwards – turning aspirations into action.

“Through the Secretariat role, we also hope to bring other Government bodies and stakeholders together to support and accelerate the roadmap’s implementation, which is crucial to ensuring the UK stays on track to meet our legally binding climate commitments.”