Daily News: 21/03/2025
Paradigm and Settle Group are in discussions to form SettleParadigm, which would become the region’s largest housing association if the partnership proceeds. Both boards have approved the initial business case. Additionally, Paradigm plans major growth, including acquiring 3,500 homes from L&Q to strengthen its presence in Buckinghamshire. Paradigm Housing Group Ltd.
The LGA warns that financial pressures on social housing could hinder housebuilding targets, with 72% of councils with an HRA likely to use reserves in 2025/26. Expected rent increases may also impact new developments and maintenance. Local Government Association
A new report reveals that cladding remediation has expanded far beyond initial estimates post-Grenfell. Originally a £600m programme for 450 buildings, it now covers 9,000-12,000 structures across five initiatives, highlighting the crisis’s growing scale and impact. Parliament.UK
The Environment Agency and Oxford City Council are partnering to unlock 18,000 homes while ensuring strong environmental protections, aligning with the government’s growth plan. Meanwhile, Westmorland and Furness Council has approved its Housing Asset Management Strategy (2025-2030), focusing on sustainability, housing quality, and tenant support, guiding repairs, maintenance, and future development. GOV.UK, Westmorland & Furness Council
The JR Group has secured a spot on Home Group Scotland’s DPS framework, ensuring a steady work pipeline for four years. At the same time, Nobu and developer Salboy are backing the £360m Viadux 2 skyscraper in Manchester, set to reshape the city’s skyline. Scottish Housing News, Construction Enquirer
Family-owned construction firm Beard has achieved its most successful trading period in its 133-year history, breaking company records with its latest financial results, reflecting strong performance and growth in the sector. Construction Enquirer
Only one in 10 emergency Covid loans issued to building companies have been repaid, highlighting the lingering financial burden on the construction sector. Additionally, contractors are struggling to meet the rising demand for new and retrofitted data centres, as the sector faces capacity and resource challenges. Construction News (register), Construction Enquirer
Developers have scaled back plans for fewer than 500 homes at Riverpark Trading Estate, down from 777. In Worsley, 400 sustainable homes at Hazelhurst Farm have been approved. Plans for 350 homes across two farms and over 300 homes at Glasgow’s Govan Docks await council decisions. In Cheshire, a solution is nearing for contaminated topsoil at a 263-home redevelopment. Elsewhere, Persimmon East Scotland has submitted plans for 213 homes in West Calder, marking the final phase of a long-term project. Place North West, Salford Now, BBC, Glasgow Live, Place North West, and Scottish Housing News