Thrive Homes and Watford Community Housing have announced they are in formal discussions over a potential merger, which would create a new customer-focused Community Gateway housing association.
Boards of both housing associations have approved an outline business case for the proposal, which aims to improve services for residents by combining resources, expertise and operational capacity, to better serve communities and address the growing demand for social and affordable housing.
Together, the two organisations currently own and manage more than 12,000 homes across Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas. With shared geography and a commitment to providing quality services for residents, it is hoped that the partnership would build on each organisation’s existing strengths while retaining local knowledge and understanding.
By merging, the two associations plan to:
- continue working closely with customers to ensure their voices are heard and they remain at the heart of the new organisation’s work
- enhance customer experience through improved services and added resource
- increase investment in sustainable housing solutions and energy efficiency initiatives
- continue to build new homes, making housing more available and affordable to those on lower incomes.
Tina Barnard, chief executive of Watford Community Housing, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to amplify our impact and continue meeting the needs of the people who matter most – our customers.”
“We are already closely aligned in our values and our commitment to delivering for local communities, as well as our geography, so we believe this is a logical step that would allow us to do more for our customers than we can achieve on our own.”
Paul Richmond, chief executive of Thrive Homes, added: “By coming together with a shared purpose, we’ll be better equipped to face the challenges of the housing sector whilst continuing to help individuals and families secure a good-quality, safe home that they can afford.”
The merger talks are in early stages, with consultations planned to involve residents, colleagues and stakeholders. If approved, the formal partnership could be in place by June 2026.
