Two Midlands landlords announce merger talks
Aspire Housing and WHG have announced a potential merger which would create a new 32,000-home landlord.
Aspire Housing and WHG announce potential merger to create a new 32,000-home landlord #UKhousingThe two housing associations have said they are in early talks around a potential merger, which would build on their existing footprint across the West Midlands and Staffordshire.
Gary Fulford, group chief executive at landlord WHG, is expected to become chief executive designate of the combined organisation, while WHG’s existing chair Gary Moreton will be board chair designate.
The two organisations said Sinéad Butters, group chief executive at Aspire, will “remain closely involved to support a smooth leadership transition”.
Read more
Under the merger proposals, WHG and Aspire hope to “create more regional growth opportunities and build more affordable homes for people in local communities”.
Mr Fulford said: “After careful consideration and initial agreement from our respective boards, we are excited to work together, with the aim of combining our shared strengths, resources and expertise to create an even stronger, more resilient organisation.”
He said the two landlords would “build on the high-quality customer and support services” that saw them both achieve a C1 rating from the Regulator of Social Housing.
Ms Butters said the potential merger “aims to mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Aspire and WHG”.
She continued: “Our organisations are already aligned in so many ways, not least [in] our shared commitment to good-quality homes and services shaped by the voice of our customers.
“Our aim is that together, we’ll have greater resilience to achieve more for our customers and communities, supporting them to thrive.
“For both of us, these proposals really do feel like a great opportunity with the ideal partner at the right time. We’re excited to see what we achieve together.”
Ms Butters also said customers will have a chance to provide feedback on these plans in the coming weeks, stating that “customer voices will be at the heart” of the proposed new organisation.
Sign up to Inside Housing’s Development and Finance newsletter
Sign up to Inside Housing’s weekly Development and Finance newsletter, featuring a round-up of business, development and regeneration news and analysis.
Click here to register and receive the Development and Finance newsletter straight to your inbox.
And subscribe to Inside Housing by clicking here.
Already have an account? Click here to manage your newsletters.
Related stories
