The Masonry Association has formally established its new Technical Board, chaired by Keith Aldis, marking a major step forward in uniting the UK’s masonry supply chain under a coordinated, transparent and technically driven forum.
Bringing together representatives from brick and block manufacturers, contractors, installers, fire safety specialists, fixings and support system manufacturers, warranty providers, innovation leaders and the National Masonry Academy, the Technical Board reflects the broadest cross-section of expertise ever assembled for this purpose within the sector.
A Unified Voice for Technical Leadership
The creation of the Technical Board responds to the growing need for an integrated approach to technical standards, regulation, skills and innovation across the masonry industry. For the first time, manufacturers, contractors, and specialist suppliers will work collaboratively in a single forum to address shared challenges and shape sector guidance.
Keith Aldis opened the inaugural meeting by highlighting the Board’s mission:
“To provide a fair, balanced, and inclusive platform that represents every part of the masonry supply chain and delivers clear, practical technical leadership for the future of our industry.”
The Association also confirmed that, as membership continues to grow, its governance structure will evolve to ensure full transparency, with subscribing members gaining voting rights and influence over strategic direction.
Key Issues Discussed at the Inaugural Meeting
The first meeting highlighted a range of immediate and long-term priorities for the sector, including:
• Cavity congestion within modern wall systems
Manufacturers raised concerns about increasingly complex cavity designs and installation challenges, particularly as fire barriers, insulation, DPCs and support systems compete for space within widening cavities.
• Building Safety Act – Gateway 2 delays
Members reported project approvals taking up to a year, particularly in high-rise work around the M25. This is creating significant project standstills and is expected to drive labour shortages and cost inflation once the backlog is released.
• Attracting new entrants
The Board discussed the need to strengthen pathways into the sector, particularly Level 2 qualifications, apprenticeships, and more meaningful site placements. Social media was recognised as an important tool for inspiring interest among young people.
• Inconsistent onsite regulation
Regulatory expectations around DPCs, cavity barriers and support systems are varying widely between inspectors. Members agreed that clearer escalation routes and more practical, technically informed oversight from regulators is urgently needed.
• The long-term future of the masonry sector
Discussion centred on decarbonisation pressures, factory viability, innovation gaps, digital transformation, and the importance of promoting durable, sustainable UK-made masonry products.
Focus Topic: Cavity Barriers
A significant portion of the meeting explored the debate between zero-compression and compression-fit fire barriers. While zero-compression systems ease installation, concerns remain around their long-term performance as buildings settle. The Board will develop clear guidance on best practice to support installers, designers and inspectors across the UK.
Innovation & Robotics: Looking Ahead
The Technical Board also recognised the growing importance of robotics and automation, including the emergence of bricklaying robots. Members agreed to monitor developments closely and ensure future guidance addresses how these technologies may support productivity, complement traditional skills, and help manage long-term workforce challenges.
Quarterly Networking Events for Members in 2026
To ensure transparency and broad engagement, the Masonry Association will be launching quarterly member networking events from 2026. These will take place immediately after each Technical Board meeting and will allow the Association to share updates, outline progress, and gather input from the wider membership.
Rotation Places Available
The Technical Board will also operate rotating guest slots to enable additional organisations and specialists to contribute to specific topics throughout the year. Members interested in participating or raising a particular technical issue are encouraged to contact the Association.
A Sector Working Together
The establishment of the Technical Board marks an important milestone in strengthening collaboration across the masonry sector at a time of rapid regulatory change and increasing technical complexity.
By bringing together expertise from across the supply chain, the Masonry Association is positioning the industry to respond collectively to challenges, drive innovation, and provide clear, practical guidance to support the safe and sustainable delivery of masonry in the built environment.
