A panel having a gypsum-based core that comprises a gypsum matrix having embedded therein a migratory starch in an amount of at least 3 wt % relative to the gypsum and glass fibre in an amount of at least 1 wt % relative to the gypsum, the panel having a maximum dimension greater than 1 m, wherein the density of the gypsum-based core is greater than 700 kg/m3, and the amount of gypsum in the gypsum-based core is greater than 60 wt %, and further wherein the total volume of water voids in the gypsum-based core is less than the total volume of the gypsum in the panel core.