Timber frame homes that can be constructed in as little as five days could accelerate housebuilding in London, according to industry leaders. Some of the capital's largest construction companies recently traveled to Scotland to observe the production process, from sustainable forestry to completed homes, as developers and ministers seek ways to boost housing supply.
Scotland Leads in Timber Frame Construction
Scotland has embraced timber frame construction on a much larger scale than England. Approximately 92% of new homes in Scotland are built using timber frame, compared to just 13% in England. Andrew Orriss, chief executive of the Structural Timber Association, said: "Scotland builds faster, greener, and more efficiently than England. If London wants to build single family homes at pace, Scotland shows the way forward. And the reason is timber frame. These high-quality homes meet higher energy and carbon standards, reduce on-site risks and boost build speed."
London's Housing Targets
Mayor of London Sir Sadiq Khan has set a target of 88,000 new homes per year over the next decade. However, only 6,325 private sector homes broke ground in the city in the first three months of 2026. While flatpack timber homes can be erected more quickly than those using brick, stone, or concrete, London schemes often rely on high-density tower blocks to maximize space. In Britain, structural timber buildings are currently limited to a maximum height of 18 metres, or up to six storeys.
Sourcing and Certification
John Kirkby, executive director of PEFC UK, emphasized the importance of responsible sourcing: "Timber has a vital role to play in the transition to a low-carbon built environment, but it is important that increased demand is matched with responsible sourcing and certification."
Controversial New Developments
New housing development locations have also sparked controversy in the capital. The Government has pledged a housebuilding boom for London, with two "new towns" delivering 36,000 homes. Up to 21,000 flats and houses are planned in Enfield, while a riverside site in Thamesmead, Greenwich will see up to 15,000 homes alongside the Docklands Light Railway extension, announced in March. However, Enfield Council has "formally withdrawn" support for the new homes due to be built on Green Belt land in Crews Hill and Chase Park. Labour had backed the project, but the party lost control of the borough at the local elections on May 7. A new Tory-led minority administration, supported by the Green Party, stated the town hall would no longer back the "new town" and would also reject Tottenham Hotspur's plan for a women's training facility on Whitewebbs Park.
