Pobl Group and Linc Cymru have formally completed a merger process to brings together two of Wales’ leading registered social landlords,
They say they will form a partnership that will significantly enhance the provision of social housing and care and support services across Wales.
The newly expanded group will manage more than 23,000 homes in Wales, with plans to deliver more than 4,500 new homes over the next five years. The group will employ more than 3,000 people.
Scott Sanders, chief executive officer at Linc, has been confirmed as the new CEO of Pobl Group, with Amanda Davies stepping down after leading Pobl for more than 20 years. Julia Cherrett, chair of Pobl Group, will continue in her role.
Julia Cherrett said: ‘The two organisations are a good fit in so many ways. Culturally, we share similar values and attitudes, strategically we have similar ambitions and complementary expertise, while geographically we both operate primarily along the M4 corridor. This is an exciting opportunity for customers and colleagues alike.’
‘I would like to welcome Scott into his new role, and to pay tribute to Amanda who has done a fantastic job leading Pobl and establishing the group as Wales’ largest provider of housing, care and support.”
Scott Sanders said: ‘There has never been a more important time for the Welsh housing sector to get closer to communities and help generate outcomes that truly enhance lives and wellbeing. With this in mind, the merged group has its eyes set on delivering community-focused services and investment programmes. With the strong partnerships we hold, we are perfectly placed to make the difference our customers want. The scale of the group brings many business benefits, not least our goal to be large and local.’
Pobl Group chair Julia Cherrett and chief executive officer Scott Sanders
Pobl Group operates across Wales and prior to merging with Linc managed more than 18,000 homes, providing care and support to almost 17,000 individuals and employing over 2,000 people.
Established in 1977, Linc Cymru is an independent business with 5,500 homes, providing housing for rent and sale, together with the provision of care and support services for people in need. A non-profit distributing business with all surpluses being reinvested to further expand their activities.
Outgoing CEO Amanda Davies, said: ‘This merger marks an exciting new chapter for Pobl Group and Linc Cymru. The Group will be better equipped to address the evolving needs of our customers and communities, particularly during challenging times driving positive change and making a lasting impact across Wales. The merger also provides opportunity for colleagues as part of a larger organisation.’
Linc Cymru will operate as a subsidiary of Pobl Group, alongside Pobl Group Homes & Communities, Pobl Group Care & Support, Pobl Living, Pobl Development Ltd, Pobl Trust, Tai Cartrefi Cyf and Arloes Ltd.
* The Spring issue of WHQ, published later this month, takes mergers as its theme with articles by the other three proposed combinations of Welsh housing associations, the implications for tenants, the legal and financial issues and the experience of mergers in England. All that plus an interview with Bridgend’s cabinet member for housing Rhys Goode, Mabon ap Gwynfor on the right to adequate housing, Matt Downie on the Criminal Justice Bill and rough sleeping, some final reflections from Lindsay Cordery-Bruce as she leaves The Wallich and all our regular features. To find out more about subscribing to WHQ, go here.