Small housing associations fear a major study taking place in two areas of east Manchester may mean they are forced into stock swaps with larger operators
The Rational Approach to Neighbourhoods project, sponsored by Manchester council, the Housing Corporation and the National Housing Federation, has been examining how to increase housing associations roles in the community.

But some associations are worried that the study will lead to some small landlords being forced to cede stock to larger operators in the name of efficiency. Mervyn Jones, chief executive of Manchester-based Willow Park Housing Trust, said: "Lots of people are very conscious about losing houses and money."

John Cockerham, Northern Counties Housing Association's regional manager for Manchester and Salford, said: "The question is, are fewer players the way forward?"

The NHF has denied that this is the aim of the project, insisting that it is focused on the expansion of community activities and improving the effectiveness of registered social landlords. Jim Coulter, chief executive, said: "We are looking at broadening the landlord role to the wider role of community managers."

About 30 housing associations are set to be invited to be involved in the two pilots, although precise details have yet to be announced. The chosen associations will receive their invitations to participate during the coming few weeks.

Consultant DTZ Pieda has already examined how stock is shared between 55 associations in the city and what impact this has on neighbourhood management.

Now it is to move on to specific case studies in the east Manchester and A6 corridor areas.

The Manchester project may be repeated in other parts of the country and will inform the production of a good practice guide.

Source

Housing Today