Regulator uses powers for first time to remove two officers from housing co-op

Jonathan Walters, deputy chief executive of the RSH, said: “We have removed two officers from the committee of Allnutt Mill Housing Co-operative Limited after identifying a number of issues with their actions. 

“We will continue to engage closely with the co-operative’s members as they pursue the plan to resolve the issues it faces.”

The RSH said it was the first time it had used its powers under Section 266 of the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008, which enables the regulator to remove officers from a private registered provider.

The regulator said it had engaged intensively with Allnutt Mill since publishing its regulatory judgement in January 2025, but the co-op had been unable or unwilling to resolve the issues and meet its standards. 

“Allnutt Mill is not able to provide RSH assurance that it has the funds or capacity to carry out necessary repairs and investment in its homes, which poses a long-term risk to its tenants,” the regulator said.

Allnutt Mill runs 46 social homes on an estate in Maidstone, Kent, which was built in 1995. It is a fully mutual housing co-op, meaning it is owned by its members and directed by a management committee drawn from its membership.

The RSH said engagement with Allnutt Mill ensured that its committee has “considered the options available” to maintain the co-op’s viability, as well as whether this can be achieved as an independent organisation. 

“The remaining committee members need to proceed with its members selected option in order to resolve the issues in an appropriate timeframe. We will engage closely with committee members as they progress these matters,” it said.

According to the RSH’s rules, an officer removed under Section 266 of the housing act may appeal to the High Court. Any appeal must be brought within 28 days, beginning with the day on which the provider is notified of the removal.  

Inside Housing has approached Allnutt Mill’s managing agent for comment.