Eastlight completes 703-home acquisition from Clarion

Eastlight Community Homes has taken ownership of 703 homes from the UK’s largest social landlord, Clarion Housing Group.

The transfer includes general needs, shared ownership and leasehold homes in Essex and Suffolk, including housing for older people and supported housing, plus a small number of homes for private rent.

Eastlight now owns and manages approximately 14,500 homes across the East of England.

The portfolio growth reinforces our financial resilience alongside our commitment to taking a proactive place-based approach to better support local residents.

The 703-home acquisition will also enhance our delivery of quick, responsive and face-to-face services that meet current and new residents’ specific needs.

Our Chief Executive, Emma Palmer, said:

“We are delighted to welcome new residents to Eastlight. This acquisition allows us to deepen our commitment to our communities, and a stronger local presence means that we can be better equipped to support our residents’ diverse needs over the long term.” 

Eastlight will contact new residents to address any specific questions or concerns, and we are issuing welcome packs which include how residents can get involved in shaping their homes and neighbourhoods for the better.

Emma added: “This transfer is a positive step forward for Eastlight, our partners and customers. By focusing our resources and expertise in this way, we are confident in our ability to provide the high-quality services that all residents expect and need.”

The transfer follows a consultation period with residents affected, which included Clarion visiting all households and provided the opportunity for residents to meet their new landlord.

Rob Lane, Chief Property Officer at Clarion Housing Group, said:

“Eastlight was selected as the new provider for these homes after a thorough process and in partnership with residents. We will be working closely with Eastlight to ensure a smooth transition for all 703 households and know they will enjoy a great local service.”

Eastlight is a G1 V1-rated organisation from the Regulator of Social Housing. We recently raised £70m in a bond issuance through the Affordable Homes Guarantee Scheme to help us develop more than 3,000 new affordable homes in the East.