CHP and Estuary Housing Association have entered discussions over a potential merger, aiming to combine their operations by the end of 2025. Together, they currently own and manage over 16,000 homes, with the merger expected to enhance services and strengthen their housing provision. Chelmer Housing Partnership (CHP)
Bromford Flagship has secured £100m in funding following its merger, finalising a Revolving Credit Facility with the Royal Bank of Canada. Meanwhile, South Ayrshire Council plans a £193m housing investment over five years, focusing on improving existing stock, new builds, and boosting affordable housing supply. Similarly, Chesterfield Borough Council has committed over £30m to enhancing council housing in the next financial year. Bromford Flagship, South Ayrshire Council, and Chesterfield News
Brighton & Hove City Council brings 99 empty homes back into use through its Empty Properties team, returning private sector homes to occupancy over the past year. Brighton & Hove City Council
Fusion21 has appointed suppliers to its £700m Workplace and Facilities Management Framework following a competitive tender process. The four-year national framework will support workplace and facilities management services. At the same time, Landsec plans to invest an additional £2bn in housing development as part of its strategy to reduce exposure to the office market over the next five years. Fusion21 Ltd, Housing Today (register)
Drees & Sommer UK has acquired Scotland-based RSP Consulting Engineers, expanding its consultancy services. Likewise, Swiss firm Sika AG has purchased UK roofing supplier Cromar Building Products. In contrast, Bam Construction faces a £6m loss after M&E specialist Michael Lonsdale collapsed, leaving it owed £5.8m. Construction Enquirer, The Construction Index, and Construction News (register)
UK construction activity January 2025: Housing – The sector saw a 12% decrease in project starts year-on-year, a 22% drop in main contract awards compared to last year, and a 22% decline in detailed planning approvals versus 2023. Construction News (register)
Sadiq Khan has unveiled a 10-year London Growth Plan, aiming to unlock 60,000 homes through three major rail projects. In Gloucestershire, a planning application for 2,750 energy-efficient homes has been submitted to Stroud District Council. Stockton councillors will review plans for 394 homes near Harrowgate Lane. In North London, Regal has submitted revised plans to revive a stalled high-rise, increasing homes from 184 to 237, with 35% designated as affordable housing. While South Shields has seen plans submitted for 124 Extra Care apartments. Housing Today (register), TheBusinessDesk.com, Teesside Live, Construction Enquirer, and South Tyneside Metropolitan Borough Council