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Northern social landlord consortium exploring new development framework model
A consortium of social housing providers in the North West is holding discussions about moving to a new development framework model.
JV North is seeking a replacement for its current £180m framework, which comes to an end next year.
The group, which has eight full housing association members, is considering a move away from the traditional procurement framework model where contractors and consultants are asked to tender for separate lists.
It is also seeking extra flexibility through potential use of measures including mini tenders and the option to add new bidders to tender lists.
A working group has been established to explore proposals for a new model, with involvement from contractors, architects, land agents and house builders.
The working group will also decide which lots will be offered on the new framework.
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Wayne Gales, chair of JV North and chief executive of Weaver Vale Housing Trust, said: “As a consortium we will be making an ambitious bid to Homes England for grant funding in the £12bn five-year Affordable Homes Programme starting next year.
“There is huge demand for high-quality affordable housing across our communities and JV North members are determined to play a leading role addressing this national crisis.
“How our framework is structured will be crucial in helping us build more homes faster, more efficiently and greener than ever before.
“By collaborating in the planning stage we can create a procurement route that benefits housing associations, local authorities, developers, contractors and consultants.
“The framework will be more efficient and allow everyone to share value and ultimately increase the supply of new homes.”
The consortium is also speaking with contractors and consultants about how its members can work differently to support them in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Housing associations “need to share contractors’ and consultants’ risks because they are key pieces of the homebuilding jigsaw”, Mr Gales said.
Weaver Vale Housing Trust, Torus, Jigsaw, One Manchester, Sovini, Trafford Housing Trust, Community Gateway Association and Wythenshawe Community Housing Group make up the full membership of JV North.
It also has seven associate and four procurement members including Manchester City Council and Bury Council.
The group is building more than 4,550 homes through the current Affordable Homes Programme with £150m of grant.
