Partnership working for decent homes

An exciting new venture in the delivery of the Decent Homes programme in North East Derbyshire has been announced by Rykneld Homes.

Two leading property specialists have been awarded contracts valued at £90 million to bring 4,000 homes managed by Rykneld Homes up to the national standard.

Ian Williams Ltd, one of the largest facilities management companies in the UK and the Midlands-based Apollo Property Services Group Ltd were chosen to carry out the work up to 2014 with the contracts due to start this November

The companies will undertake internal improvement works to kitchens, bathrooms, heating and electrics and external works to windows, doors, and roofing. They will also carry out major aids and adaptations to properties.

The decision to tender for the work was made by Rykneld Homes as part of its commitment to delivering the Decent Homes programme by maximising resources and providing good, value for money services to tenants and customers.

The partnership agreements were awarded following a rigorous evaluation process.

Said Su Gomer, Chief Executive of Rykneld Homes: “At Rykneld Homes it is vital we spend our resources as effectively and efficiently as possible. In order to secure the success of the Decent Homes Programme, we had to ensure that the Capital Works Programme provided Value for Money, put tenants and residents at the heart of our business and delivered equal services to all.

“We are delighted to be working with our partners and taking advantage of their previous good service in delivering Decent Homes work in other parts of the UK.”

Dave Sheridan, Chief Operating Officer for Apollo, said: “It was apparent from the start of the procurement process that both Rykneld Homes and Apollo share the same synergy within their staff and a dynamic approach to delivering a fully integrated service tailored to the needs of the tenants of Rykneld Homes.
“This win has huge strategic importance for Apollo. Our mission is to become a fully national provider of integrated property services within the next five years and working in North East Derbyshire with Rykneld Homes takes us another step closer to achieving just that.”

Mike Turner, development director at Ian Williams, said: “We are delighted to have secured this contract with a well-performing organisation. We are looking forward now to starting discussions with tenants as to the type of fittings and fixtures they would like and then beginning work to transform their homes.

“We place great importance on understanding our customers’ needs and our team is keen to ensure high levels of satisfaction.”