The Irish Timber Frame Manufacturers’ Association (ITFMA) has hailed a government report on the timber frame industry as a “milestone”.
The long-overdue report, published by Irish environment minister Martin Cullen, examines how timber frame can supplement traditional methods of building to achieve increased housing output envisaged in the National Development Plan 2000-2006
Recommendations include increasing the height limit of timber frame structures in the building regulations from two storeys to four storeys; developing customised education and training in timber frame design and construction; and formulation of an industry code of practice.
ITFMA chairman Peter de Lacy Staunton said the report was recognition of the role timber frame would play in the country’s future housing plans.
He said: “The government’s recognition of the role timber frame can play to meet our housing needs is welcome. Now the industry must get on with building market share and ensuring the highest standards of construction at all times so that any lingering doubts about the benefits of timber frame can be banished once and for all.”
Mr de Lacy Staunton welcomed the recommendation for greater integrated training and education. He also called on the government to remove barriers for the timber trade sector, such as the current two-storey limit.
The government is launching a consultation process on the report’s findings and wants to hear the views of timber frame manufacturers, desginers, builders, insurers and standards agencies.
