Places for People appoints contractor to £104m investment programme

Wigan-based construction firm Connolly will work with the social enterprise over the next four years to upgrade thousands of homes across the North West.

Social housing provider Places for People has appointed the contractor to its £104m investment programme, which is spread over six regions.

Those involved are committed to targets to deliver social value and improve customer homes.

Works include an energy efficiency programme adding solar hot water heating systems, PV panels, low energy lighting, and energy-efficient storage heaters, as well as a programme to upgrade insulation in almost 900 homes across the regions.

Mark Arnold, director of asset strategy and investment at Places for People, said: “We call ourselves the UK’s leading social enterprise, and our new major works investment programme and contractor framework is the embodiment of that – with the investment in the North West improving thousands of lives via upgraded homes and employment opportunities.

“A departure from fragmented, inefficient relationships of old, it allows us to deliver works at scale – delivering upgrades that help customers combat prevalent macro-economic challenges like energy prices, while also contributing to opportunities within their local community.”

More than £20m will be invested in the North West with Connolly also committed to donating materials and labour for community refurbishment projects, running DIY workshops for customers, and donating money to local causes across the region.

Simon Harrison, managing director at Connolly, said: “Connolly is a family business that extends beyond its people, focusing on building new relationships, improving lives and communities, and making a positive difference to business.

“Our vision is to deliver a truly unique service that inspires our people, our customers, and our industry”, he continued.

“We hold ourselves to a high standard in our collaborative approach, share the same ethos as Places for People, and look forward to improving thousands of homes and lives across the North West.”

He added: “Our new framework formalises this approach, with a sustainable commercial model that even in its first year, will result in almost 10% of construction cost savings that is already being invested in community initiatives.

“This programme is a response to their needs, exceeding regulatory requirements and delivering sustainable homes and communities.”

Elsewhere, Wates has been appointed to the framework in the North East.