Representatives from across the hardwood industry supply chain will descend on Vastern Timber sawmill in Wootton Basset today to take part in seminars and cross-industry discussions on the challenges and opportunities for British timber.
The event, entitled "˜Building Connections', takes place during "˜Grown in Britain' week and will be attended by architects, structural engineers, construction companies, owners of woodland management companies, and furniture makers, as well as Sir Harry Studholme, Chair of the Forestry Commission.
Speaking about the event, Tom Barnes Director at Vastern Timber said: "We held the first Building Connections seminar and open day last year to support Grown in Britain week and as it was such a success, we decided to organise an annual sequel.
"The purpose of the event is to create a bridge between those that grow the trees, those that process trees and those that design and turn them into elements of the built environment. During the day we will be discussing key issues for the British timber industry to identify both challenges and opportunities. We will also be looking at the progress made by the Grown in Britain campaign and how the new Grown in Britain certification fits in to the FSC and PEFC accreditation landscape."
The event agenda also includes a discussion about thermally modified British hardwoods and the importance of Britishness in the purchasing decision.
"We are delighted to have assembled such a broad collection of representatives from all stages of the supply chain," continues Tom Barnes. "Ultimately we expect the event to help develop strategies to further the demand for native timber and improvement in the woodland resource. It should also help to promote an ancient industry which predates almost all other British industries and which continues to enjoy a great reputation both domestically and abroad."
With a heritage stretching back to 1904, Vastern Timber has established itself as one of the leading processors and suppliers of British hardwoods. In July the company supplied English oak for the reconstruction of the drawbridge at the Tower of London, one of the most famous symbols of British heritage and history. The drawbridge was originally created in 1834.
At the Building Connections event, hosted jointly by Vastern Timber and Tyler Hardwoods, delegates will gather for a day of informative presentations, lively discussion and a tour of a busy hardwood sawmill. The focus of the tour will be the beautiful English ash, from tree to finished product. On display will be examples of stunning furniture and joinery all constructed from ash grown in our native woodlands.
Grown in Britain week takes place finishes on October 19 and is a national celebration of British woods and the societal values and products that they contribute. To find out more visit
www.growninbritain.org
