A £130m housing PFI scheme in Oldham could be derailed following the Rok collapse.
Rok was part of the Inspiral consortium, with housing providers Regenter and Great Places Housing Group, which was appointed preferred bidder on the Gateways to Oldham PFI project last November.
The consortium is understood to be holding urgent talks with other contractors. However, because the scheme had not reached financial close, rival bidders could challenge a decision by the client to continue with a different contractor.
Sources have warned that Oldham council may choose to rebid the scheme to stave off potential complaints. One said: “Regenter is talking to other firms, but there’s no guarantee that the contract will proceed.”
A Regenter spokesperson said: “The Inspiral consortium is currently undertaking a competitive process to select a replacement construction partner, which will conclude shortly. We remain fully committed to ensuring that the Gateways to Oldham project will be delivered.”
Rok was also involved with the Inspiral consortium in chasing a £200m, 25-year social housing PFI in Pendleton, Salford. The consortium - which also includes Countryside Properties, G&J Seddon and LPC Living - is one of two remaining bidders. Another contractor is now also being sought for the bid.
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