Another main timber industry organisation, the Timber Trade Federation, welcomed moves to boost the housing market and the government confirming its commitment to make all new homes “zero carbon” by 2016.
But Mr McIlwee, while welcoming added flexibility through the new Help to Buy and mortgage guarantee schemes, said a more practical growth-focused policy was needed.
“I remain concerned for our members, who operate at the very heart of manufacturing,” he said. “Virtually the entire business world stood up and asked for more housebuilding – the measures announced are not enough fast enough.”
TTF chief executive John White said housebuilding projects were a quick way to boost the economy.
“On behalf of the timber industry I whole heartedly welcome the chancellor’s moves to boost the supply side of the housing market,” he said.
“We can only hope this will now help drive demand and get new projects moving.”
However, he said the moves had to be seen in the context of a depressed outlook overall, with the UK GDP growth forecast having been slashed in half.
“Having said this, I am pleased to see that the government has reiterated its commitment to implementing zero carbon homes from 2016. This will provide a major boost to our members and we look forward to working with the government to achieving this goal.”
