Western invests £1 million in automated timber line to drive smart, low-carbon manufacturing

Western has announced a major expansion of its Coalisland headquarters, unveiling a £1 million fully automated timber panel production line designed to advance offsite construction through digital precision, reduced waste, and faster delivery.

The investment forms part of a broader multi-million-pound programme focused on innovation, efficiency, and Net Zero delivery. Developed in partnership with Modular Building Automation and JJ Smith Woodworking Machinery, the new system integrates hsbcad’s digital design platform to create a seamless design-to-manufacture workflow.

This next-generation line enables Western to produce open and closed timber wall panels with minimal manual handling, greater accuracy, and tighter tolerances. The upgrade is expected to shorten construction timelines, reduce site disruption, and significantly cut material waste while supporting the company’s carbon-reduction targets.

Managing director Rory McGuigan said the investment represents more than technological progress. “This isn’t just a leap in technology — it’s a statement about where we’re headed. We’re making our operations smarter, faster, and more sustainable,” he noted.

The company also hosted delegations from Australia and the Netherlands, who met with Western’s executives to exchange insights on modular construction and sustainability.

Operations director Declan McCloskey said the visit underscored Western’s long-standing leadership in offsite innovation and its commitment to shaping the future of manufacturing.

Read the full story to see how Western is redefining offsite construction through automation and sustainability.