Homes England has launched the bidding process for its Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP) 2026-2036, a significant government initiative aimed at delivering a substantial increase in social and affordable housing across England. This ten-year programme is backed by at least £27 billion in funding, forming part of a wider £39 billion investment to address housing needs and support sustainable community development.

Programme Overview and Funding

The Social and Affordable Homes Programme is designed to accelerate the construction of new homes for social rent, affordable rent, and shared ownership. It aims to meet the growing demand for affordable housing while fostering vibrant and sustainable communities. Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency, is responsible for delivering the funding and overseeing the programme.

Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating: “Today marks an important milestone in the government’s ambition to deliver the biggest increase in social and affordable housebuilding in a generation as we open our new Social and Affordable Homes Programme for business.” He emphasised the collaborative approach with housing providers, encouraging bold and ambitious bids to kickstart a decade of renewal in social and affordable housing.

Focus Areas and Programme Priorities

The refreshed programme places a strong emphasis on increasing the supply of homes for social rent, which must constitute at least 60% of all homes delivered under the scheme. It also prioritises mixed-tenure developments and insists on maintaining high standards of design, safety, and sustainability. These priorities reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring that the most affordable tenures are at the forefront of housing delivery.

Amy Rees CB, Chief Executive of Homes England, underlined the programme’s objectives: “Our updated bidding guidance clearly sets out what we are looking for: high-quality, deliverable schemes that prioritise social rent and demonstrate strong value for money.” She added that the programme is not only about increasing housing supply but also about reshaping the future of affordable housing and supporting the government’s target to build 1.5 million new homes during this parliament.

Bidding Routes and Guidance

Access to the programme is available through two main routes. The first, Continuous Market Engagement (CME), allows housing providers to work with Homes England on a scheme-by-scheme basis throughout the programme’s duration. This route offers flexibility and certainty around grant funding, enabling responses tailored to specific local housing needs.

The second route is the Strategic Partnership Framework, which provides long-term funding certainty for partners capable of delivering at scale and pace. This approach facilitates larger funding allocations to support ambitious and comprehensive delivery programmes.

Homes England has also published updated bidding guidance to assist providers in preparing strong proposals. This guidance aims to clarify the programme’s requirements and expectations, helping applicants align their bids with both local housing strategies and national priorities.

What this means for landlords

For landlords and letting agents, the Social and Affordable Homes Programme signals a forthcoming increase in the availability of affordable rental properties, particularly social rent homes, which are prioritised under the scheme. The emphasis on mixed-tenure developments may also create more diverse local housing markets, offering a range of affordable options for tenants.

Landlords should be aware that Homes England’s funding and regulatory certainty could encourage registered providers to expand their portfolios, potentially increasing demand for property management services and tenancy support. Staying informed about the programme’s progress and the providers involved may present opportunities for collaboration and growth within the affordable housing sector.

Source: Based on reporting from Homes England

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TLA update

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