The Wrekin Housing Group and Housing Plus Group have completed their merger to create one of the largest social housing providers in the West Midlands.
The new organisation, called Housing Plus Group, has 33,000 homes across Shropshire, Staffordshire, and Telford & Wrekin. It plans to invest an additional £55m in existing homes and expects to be a key developer of new homes over the next five years.
Wayne Gethings, group chief executive of the new Housing Plus Group said: “This merger represents an exciting new chapter, bringing together two outstanding organisations with a shared commitment to improving lives and communities.
“By uniting our strengths and expertise, we are building a housing association that is stronger, more resilient, and better positioned to deliver quality landlord services and homes for all our customers. As the new Housing Plus Group, we’re ready to create lasting, positive change for the people and communities we serve.”
Over 3,500 residents responded to consultation on the merger, which is now legally complete having achieved the relevant consents. Key priorities among residents are repairs, improvements to their homes, building new homes, and feeling safe in their homes.
During the first year, Catherine Dass, former Housing Plus Group board member, is serving as transition chair of the new group. She is joined by Debbie Griffiths, former board member of The Wrekin Housing Group, as vice-hair.
Dass said: “Together, as the new Housing Plus Group, we are stronger. We are taking the best from each organisation and creating greater capacity to invest more in homes and services, strengthen our customer voice and support people impacted by the cost-of-living crisis.
“Both organisations have a proud history of putting people at the heart of everything we do. By bringing together our strengths, resources, and strong community focus, the new group will be a great place to work for our people and provide better services to our tenants and customers.”
Main image: Wayne Gethings (centre), group chief executive of the new Housing Plus Group
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