WARRINGTON’S biggest landlord Golden Gates Housing Trust (GGHT) has announced it is in talks with St Helens-based Helena Partnerships about the possibility of forming a partnership.
The potential benefits of the two housing associations working together are being explored and discussions will continue over the coming months.
If the move goes ahead, the new group would own 22,000 homes in the region, employ 1,000 people and have a joint turnover of over £100m, making it one of the largest housing groups in the North West.
A group structure means both organisations will keep their own identities, meaning GGHT would continue to deliver frontline services in Warrington.
The next step for the housing associations is to identify the benefits the organisations and their tenants could expect if the partnership goes ahead.
Peter Mercer, Chief Executive of GGHT, (pictured right) said: “We are delighted to be exploring this exciting opportunity. The geographical links between St Helens and Warrington provide a real opportunity to positively influence the regional economy. Together, we would build on our shared culture, values and strengths to overcome the external challenges we are facing.
“GGHT has strong roots in Warrington and we remain committed to investing in neighbourhoods, increasing supply of affordable homes and improving quality of life for our customers. Our number one priority is our customers, and making the best decision for them.”
“We would focus on building affordable homes on a large scale in Merseyside and providing vital support services that are being squeezed to the limit through public funding cuts. We intend to fully engage with our residents and staff during the next phase.”
Rob Young, Chief Executive of Helena Partnerships, said: “Helena already has great links with Warrington including being a preferred developer for Warrington Council. We are still committed to building 200 new affordable homes in Warrington but this could be doubled if the partnership goes ahead. We remain committed to investing in new and existing homes, neighbourhoods and providing excellent services.”
Should talks progress positively, it is anticipated that a final decision will be announced in summer 2014.
Housing Trusts in partnership talks
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
