Considering how timber could be the answer to the nations building problems is the subject of a pioneering conference to be hosted on 18 September by the Woodfair South West Partnership in conjunction with the Centre for Contemporary Art and the Natural World.

The event at Exeter University will look at how wood can play a valuable role in improving the sustainability of the built environment, and how cutting edge technology can be used to create innovative, dynamic new build and homes.

It will also examine how timber could potentially address the affordable housing crisis, providing the infrastructure for new homes in a cost – and carbon – efficient manner.

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Some of Europe's most stunning timber buildings will be showcased at the conference, with keynote speakers from the architectural practices behind the designs. It aims to show how timber can be used to deliver modern buildings that are strikingly beautiful in appearance and highly energy efficient in performance.

Wayne Hemingway, co-founder of Hemingway Design and Chair of Building for Life, will be headlining the conference, leading a session on the 'Vision for the Future' and the deployment of timber into more mainstream construction and development projects.

Aimed at professionals in the design, construction, planning and engineering industries, the event has been designed to appeal to both public and private sector. The event offers continuous professional development (CPD), with a choice of CPD seminars on Inspirational Design; Practical Issues for Architects; Zero Carbon Buildings; Wood Energy and Timber Industry Research.

Sponsored by the Forestry Commission, the event is also being supported by a partnership of other agencies, including South West Forest, Devon Sustainable Building Initiative, South West RDA and Timber Research and Development Association (TRADA).

(JM/SP)