Nick Raynsford raises some pertinent queries about the government鈥檚 plans to increase housing supply (14 September, page 30). The issue is whether this expansion will lead to a drop in design and environmental standards.

If the industry attempts to expand its output without significant changes to processes, something will have to give. Modernisation of the industry is long overdue, and with Gordon Brown holding the carrot of fewer planning constraints and the stick of an Office of Fair Trading review, this may finally be achieved.

The way to start this process is by looking to off-site construction. More than 300 years after Adam Smith (pictured) wrote about his theoretical pin factory and the division of labour, many sites operate on a piecework basis. Off-site methods have lower costs, increased output, better use of resources, a safer environment and more consistent, products. It also uses more appropriate materials. Brick and block may be traditional, but steel is lighter, stronger, more durable and, when coupled with off-site advantages, more sustainable.

Bassam Burgan, chairman, Steel Homes Group

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