With Homes England opening bidding for new strategic partnerships as part of the Government’s Affordable Homes Programme (2021-2026), it is a pivotal time for affordable housing providers planning their development programmes for the next 5 years. Bidders have until noon on 18 May 2021 to submit their proposal online.
As one of two ways of obtaining grant funding from Homes England, strategic partners enter into a multi-year grant agreement to deliver affordable housing at scale, benefitting from the certainty of affordable homes grant funding for the duration of the deal with greater flexibility over delivery.
Interestingly, in this round of bidding, Homes England is welcoming proposals from for-profit affordable housing providers, developers and local authorities in an effort to encourage innovation, diversify the sector and increase the supply of much needed affordable homes. Time will tell how this may impact not-for-profit affordable housing providers in the longer term.
In return for guaranteed funding, strategic partners must demonstrate high-quality sustainable design and show a commitment to working closely with SMEs within their development programme. The AHP 2021-26 places more emphasis on the use of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) with strategic partners required to provide 25% of their funded homes using MMC.
How can Tozers help?
Our affordable housing team are fortunate enough to work with some of the most forward thinking and innovative registered providers in the South West who use their considerable skills to continue to develop at an impressive rate despite the challenges they face. If you are already a registered provider or interested in developing affordable housing and looking for advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
