Associations in merger talks to create 40,000-home organisation

The associations are in formal talks over the partnership that would see them become an organisation with nearly 40,000 homes and a combined turnover of £250m. They plan to invest £1.5bn in 14,000 new homes over the next decade.

The associations plan to develop automated digital services alongside their development programme.

In a joint statement, chief executives Philippa Jones of Bromford and Robert Nettleton of Merlin said: “This is a partnership where each organisation brings expertise that complements the other and service aspirations that fit really well. It brings together two forward-thinking housing associations with a shared vision of enabling customers to use great affordable homes as a springboard to achieve more of what they hope for themselves, their families and their communities.

“Both our organisations have ambitious development programmes. Working together these can be combined and expanded to deliver 14,000 new homes in the next decade. This capability and a common passion to offer an exceptional customer experience will help our combined business grow and deliver more of a difference.”