Timber's time has arrived, that was the message at a day-long seminar held in Forres today (Wednesday, April 18). Members of the construction industry and forestry businesses came together to discuss the escalating demand for locally sourced timber in the design and construction of new buildings.

Organised by the Highlands and Islands Forest Industry Cluster (HIFIC) and supported by HIE Moray, over 60 delegates heard presentations from architect Neil Sutherland on how different types of wood can be used and from Dr Stephen Garvin from the Building Research Establishment on the ways in which timber compares with other building materials.

Steve Connolly, HIFIC's chairman explained: "Timber is being used in new builds at an increasingly rapid rate. This event aimed to provide those involved in building design, construction and the production of timber with an opportunity to find out more about how this market sector is changing.

"It was very useful for current practitioners to discuss how timber processors can meet the needs of the design and construction sector and where developers can source a special piece of oak for a feature staircase or beam."

During the afternoon delegates travelled to the Findhorn Foundation to view a range of timber houses and then visited the new Forestry Commission (FC) offices at Smithton which are constructed from virtually 100 per cent sustainable timber. FC staff were on hand to answer questions on the building's Douglas Fir frame, and on the numerous renewable technologies employed for its heating and power sources.