Speaking at the association’s AGM, chairman Richard Burbidge said TRADA had seen significant growth in membership – 350 new members signed up in 2005 alone.
But, he added, keeping existing members happy was a fundamental priority and the partnership with TRADA Technology for maintaining and delivering membership services ensured that this requirement was met.
The board had initiated a strategic review to identify possible areas for investment to extend the range of service and benefits to members.
As a result, TRADA will appoint a Building Regulations consultant to develop a major new service towards the end of 2006. This will enable TRADA to take a proactive role in communicating to members planned and actual changes in regulations and standards and any other significant initiatives that affect timber specification.
Mr Burbidge said feedback from members would be encouraged and TRADA would engage with government to pursue acceptable outcomes for timber.
Further new initiatives, particularly in the area of training and education are under consideration for next year.
Also on the agenda is a revamp of the TRADA website which has been key to the association’s membership expansion over the past three years. The new look will be launched in the autumn, along with a new case study area to meet demand from architect members in particular.
