Homes England today launched the bidding process for potential strategic partners on its £7.4bn Affordable Homes Programme (2021-26).

And for the first time private house builders can apply. Previous incarnations of the scheme have only been open to not-for-profit providers but the government has made it clear it will welcome applications from any organisation which has the capacity to deliver at scale. The target is 130,000 new homes in the next five years. [emaillocker id=”71749″]

Those interested have until noon on May 18 to submit their proposal online. The programme covers projects outside of London. Partners looking to develop affordable housing in London can find more information on the Greater London Authority’s website.

Gordon More, Interim Chief Executive Homes England said: “Our strategic partnership model is about working with ambitious organisations to maximise successful delivery through Government funding and use of our wider resources so we can increase innovation, diversify the sector and increase the supply of much needed affordable homes.

“Building on the successes of our existing strategic partnerships, we’re welcoming bids from a broader set of partners that are as committed as we are to design quality and modernisation.”

Partners in the five-year programme will benefit from the certainty of affordable homes grant funding for the duration of the deal, with greater flexibility to deliver and bespoke access to the agency’s land and investment capabilities.

In return, strategic partners need to demonstrate how they are supporting Homes England’s strategic objectives within their development programme. This includes the adoption of modern methods of construction (MMC), a dedication to high-quality sustainable design and a commitment to working closely with SMEs.

Strategic partners funded through the programme must draw down eligible grants by March 31, 2026.

For more information about submitting an application email ahp2126@homesengland.gov.uk [/emaillocker]