Broadleaf trees are vitally important for the ecological and cultural benefits of England’s forests, yet they have long been underutilised as a potential source of construction timber1. With the combined challenges of climate change, biodiversity collapse, and raw materials shortages, it is increasingly important to consider their potential for the benefit of both people and the forests.

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• Market analysis revealed challenges with supply chain gaps, skills shortages, and material availability, alongside strong drivers such as structural performance, durability, low embodied energy, and waste reduction.

• Material testing covered species like sycamore, alder, birch, sweet chestnut, beech, ash, poplar, paulownia, and European oak, creating valuable data for future grading standards.

• A suite of engineered products was developed to optimise the use of diverse hardwood resources. The research demonstrated that hybrid systems offer significant advantages by combining species for specific performance attributes.

• Demonstration projects helped engage the supply chain and proved the practical viability of these solutions.

• Outreach efforts targeted diverse audiences to share knowledge, build understanding, and ensure lasting impact.

I'm interested in:

• BE-ST
• DRMM Architects
• Edinburgh Napier University
• Forestry Commission
• homegrown
• New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering (NMITE)