Customer news

We’re excited to announce that we’ve entered talks with Estuary Housing Association over a potential merger. Together, both organisations currently own and manage over 16,000 homes and a merger would see us come together by the end of 2025. 

Our Board, along with Estuary’s, has approved an initial business case that unlocks financial capacity with the potential to invest more in existing homes and communities, and the delivery of much-needed new homes for local people. 

If approved, the new organisation would be the biggest housing association centred in Essex and one of the largest in the region. It would build on each organisation's existing strengths by providing high-quality homes and services to local people across Essex and the surrounding area. 

Paul Edwards, CHP’s Chief Executive, and Ian Martin, Chief Executive at Estuary, said: “CHP and Estuary share clear strategic alignment, and this is a brilliant opportunity to bring together two strong organisations into one, which is why we believe there’s merit in further exploring a merger.  We’re already committed individually to positively contributing to tackling the housing crisis within Essex. Together, we’d be a powerful influence on future housing strategy and further development in the county.  

“We share similar visions, values, and culture, as well as matching geography. We think these similarities are huge benefits that would allow us to work effectively together to deliver the best possible service to our customers”. 

Along with Estuary, we will now enter a period of due diligence and consult with customers, employees, and stakeholders about the potential change. Once the due diligence and consultation are completed, the Boards of both organisations will make the final decision to merge or not. 

If you would like to know more, be kept informed, or be involved in the consultation process, you can: