The investment responds to rising demand for factory-built solutions that ease onsite labour pressures, improve consistency and help teams deliver more predictable build programmes.

Based in Berwickshire, Fleming Homes has been designing and manufacturing bespoke timber frame homes for 40 years, bringing freedom, flexibility and individuality to self-building. Platform 1 marks the next stage in the company’s evolution – strengthening its commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, while keeping the experience firmly centred on the customer.

The new factory introduces an enhanced prefabricated product range, including a closed panel solution in which key elements are installed in the factory – an additional layer of 50mm rigid insulation, air-tight VC Foil Membrane and internal 45 x 45mm internal battens that create a service cavity for wiring and pipework.

The facility also introduces the manufacture of roof cassettes – prefabricated roof sections designed to form a vaulted ceiling. By increasing the level of off-site manufacturing, Fleming Homes will reduce on-site work and deliver more consistent results.

At the heart of Platform 1 is a major investment in advanced manufacturing technology. A new CNC-controlled saw fully integrated with Fleming Homes’ design software allows components to be precision-cut directly from digital models, improving accuracy and consistency while optimising material use and reducing waste.

“Platform 1 is about making self-building feel more straightforward,” said Sarah Mathieson, managing director. “When we can complete more of the work in the factory, we reduce complexity onsite, shorten build programmes and help customers move through the process with greater confidence.”

The CNC technology supports faster frame erection and smoother build schedules in the short term, while creating flexibility to further develop Fleming Homes’ product offering in the future.

“The saw gives us enhanced manufacturing flexibility,” Sarah added. “It speeds up production and allows us to prefabricate more structural detail. That efficiency directly benefits our customers.”

Notably, it’s the first Technosaw to be supplied to the UK market by Essetre, Weinig UK, selected for performance rather than convention.

“We chose the machine that best suited our needs,” said operations director Hayden Martin. “Rather than being led by industry convention, we are leading the way with decision making driven by what delivers the best outcomes for our customers.”

For self-builders, a higher level of factory manufacture can reduce on-site labour, cut the number of trades and shorten build timelines. Where materials are supplied as part of a qualifying supply-and-install package for a new home, greater off-site manufacture can reduce upfront VAT outlay, supporting cashflow and affordability. Architects will now benefit from factory-controlled secondary insulation layers that deliver consistent thermal performance, while contractors gain from faster, more cost-effective installation and reduced programme risk.

Platform 1 also positions Fleming Homes to bring its long-established values of service, flexibility and attention to detail into the medium-scale commercial housing market.

Jane Morrison-Ross, chief executive of South of Scotland Enterprise who provided almost £200,000 worth of funding to the project, said: “Creating more homes and more choice of homes is one of the key priorities which SOSE and partners have identified for the South, as well as encouraging innovation and improving productivity.

“Fleming Homes’ new facility will contribute towards all of these aims, with the efficiencies it will deliver helping reduce the time required to build new homes and cutting waste.

“SOSE supports a wide range of businesses and we encourage anyone in the construction sector – from start-ups to SMEs to larger companies – to get in touch if looking to start, grow or innovate in the South of Scotland.”

“Our standards and care won’t change,” Sarah concluded. “This new facility helps us deliver the benefits of offsite manufacture at greater scale, while continuing to develop what we do and how we support our clients.”

With the launch of Platform 1, Fleming Homes is responding directly to demand for higher-performing homes, faster construction and a more efficient building process – all while staying true to its self-build roots.