Image of different sized and shaped woodern house models lined up next to each other to support housing framework article

Unveiling the £2bn Housing Sector Framework

The recently announced £2bn public sector housing framework represents a significant investment in the UK’s housing sector. Orchestrated by the Communities & Housing Investment Consortium (CHIC), the framework is set to revolutionise housing conditions for many, focusing on retrofit and building safety initiatives aimed at enhancing the living standards of local communities. Over the next four years, this initiative will support local authorities and social housing providers in accessing necessary services and solutions for home improvement and safety upgrades, emphasising sustainability and quality living conditions.

Among the notable participants in this framework are well-known CN100 contractors like Equans, Morgan Sindall, Seddon, and Wates. These major players are teamed up with an array of smaller firms, proving that collaboration across different scales is vital for addressing the housing needs comprehensively. Not only does this collaboration foster a competitive and dynamic environment, but it also supports smaller businesses, like Green Grant Installs and Synergize, contributing significantly across various lots of the framework. These collaborations underscore the framework’s inclusive approach, aiming to pool expertise from diverse sources to deliver on its promises of enhanced housing safety and efficiency.

Breakdown of the Framework’s Lots

The framework is divided into three main lots, each targeting a specific area of housing improvement:

  • Lot 1 (£650m): Focuses on consultancy services including asset management, technical consultancy, and technical design.
  • Lot 2 (£950m): encompasses works and services projects such as fabric first retrofit, mechanical and engineering retrofit, turnkey solutions, and building safety.
  • Lot 3 (£400m): Dedicated to digitalisation work, involving digital analytics, reporting platforms, and smart sensors.

This structured approach ensures that the framework addresses various aspects of housing improvement, from foundational safety to technological enhancements, paving the way for a modernised housing infrastructure​.

Impact on Housing and Local Communities

The direct impact of this extensive framework on local communities is expected to be profound. By enhancing residential properties, the framework not only improves the quality of life for tenants but also contributes to the broader goal of energy efficiency and safety. The focus on retrofit energy solutions and safety refurbishments underpins the CHIC’s commitment to sustainable living practices that resonate well with current environmental concerns. Moreover, these improvements are anticipated to bring about significant economic benefits through job creation and the stimulation of local economies​.

Looking forward, the CHIC framework sets a precedent for future housing policies and frameworks. Compared to previous initiatives, such as last year’s £3bn CHIC housing framework, this new plan seems more focused on integrating digital technologies and comprehensive consultancy services, suggesting a shift towards more sustainable and technologically advanced housing solutions. As these projects unfold, they are expected to provide valuable insights into effective strategies for community housing improvements, potentially influencing national housing policies and practices in the future.

Sources:

sarahrudge , , 3 min read
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