National law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has advised on the transfer of 2,227 homes from housing group Orbit to Raven Housing Trust in the South East of England.
Working on behalf of Orbit, the multi-disciplinary team at Clarke Willmott handled various aspects of the transfer until completion, led by partner and social housing co-lead Vicky Kells. Clarke Willmott provided advice on housing, construction, management arrangements, leaseholds, procurement and employment.
The transfer comprised a range of tenures including general needs, leasehold, shared ownership and supported living, across nine local authorities. The majority of homes transferred on completion, with the remainder following a phased transfer plan.
Vicky Kells, who specialises in affordable housing portfolios, said: “We are delighted that the transfer of homes between long-standing client Orbit and Raven Housing Trust is now complete.
“The transfer enables Orbit to focus on investing in its customer experience as well as existing and new homes in its core geographical areas. For Raven it represents a significant increase in its portfolio of affordable homes in the South East from around 7,000 to over 9,500.
“Teams across Clarke Willmott contributed to this matter, and our full-service approach ensured the clients were well supported throughout the deal. This collaboration enabled us to manage the transaction’s legal and practical complexities efficiently and deliver a smooth completion.”
The multi-disciplinary team was led by partner, Vicky Kells, supported by Oliver Smedley, Samesh Khamb, Selina Cowburn, Beckie Herbert and James Baker.
Construction advice was provided by partner Emma Raspin, James Williams, Amy Johns and Chelsea Mace. Partner Amy Peacey coordinated advice on management arrangements, working with Lynn James and Tara Moseley on leasehold/service charges and Richard Moore on procurement. Louise Rogers, partner in the Clarke Willmott employment team, advised on TUPE.
Phil Andrew, Chief Executive at Orbit, explains: “As part of our 2030 Strategy, we’re working to optimise the geographical areas where we work and build, to enable us to be more consistent as a great social landlord for our customers.
“We believe customers receive the best service when their landlord has a strong presence in the area and are confident that Raven Housing Trust will provide long-term benefits for customers.
“Reducing the number of local authorities in which we operate means we can focus further on improving customer satisfaction, value for money and services for customers in our core areas, as well as expanding our presence in these areas to provide a more people with a good quality home that they can afford, in a place that they are proud to live.”
Jonathan Higgs, Chief Executive of Raven Housing Trust, said: “The transfer of 2,227 homes to Raven marks an exciting milestone for our organisation and a significant step forward in our ambition to make an even greater difference across the South East.
“As a housing association that has been rooted in the South East for 25 years, we know these neighbourhoods, understand the needs of local communities and are already working at the heart of them. For customers, this means having a landlord with local teams in place, local knowledge and a genuine commitment to delivering excellent services and support.”
Orbit was advised by Clarke Willmott and JLL, while Raven was advised by Trowers & Hamlins, Campbell Tickell and Savills.
Clarke Willmott’s national team of social housing solicitors is one of the largest in the UK, acting for over 100 Registered Providers, as well as providing support to major legal services frameworks.
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