Homes England

Homes England launches new land disposal approach



Homes England has introduced its new Delivery Partner Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), which will transform the way the housing delivery body procures housebuilders and disposes of land.


It is said to be the biggest DPS of its kind, and, valued at £20bn, is Homes England’s largest procurement exercise to date.

Housebuilders can now apply to join the agency’s list of preferred developers at any time, rather than having to wait until the list is renewed once every four years. 

The system replaces the Delivery Partner Panel 3 (DPP3).

“This marks a significant step forward in the way we work with developers to build homes,” said Stephen Kinsella, chief land and development officer at Homes England.

“The flexibility of the DPS means that housebuilders can apply to join when it suits them, or when they see a relevant site on our land hub. 

“We’ve also simplified the application process, so whether you’re a large, nationwide housebuilder, or a small local developer, it will be easier for you to access land you want to build on. 

“We encourage all housebuilders interested in working with us to monitor our recently updated land hub, and apply to join the DPS when they see a site of interest.”
 
The body stated that the application process is proportionate, and depends on the size of the sites that a developer wishes to bid for, making it more accessible for smaller developers. 

During the application process, housebuilders can also express interest in the locations and types of sites they want to develop. 

In addition, local authorities and housing associations can use the DPS as a procurement-compliant solution for finding housebuilders.
 
Initial applications opened earlier this year, and 66 housebuilders have now been appointed to the DPS — of which 24 are SMEs. 
 
Housing Minster, Christopher Pincher, added: “We welcome this change which will support SMEs while providing more opportunities for homeownership to hard working people across the country.”  
 
Homes England has a number of sites that it is planning to issue expressions of interest for via the DPS in the coming months.

This includes a 14-acre site on Homes England’s Northern Arc scheme in Burgess Hill, which will support around 350 homes — 30% of which will be affordable.

The site will be divided into two or three sub plots, making it particularly suited to SME developers. 

Information on how to apply to join the DPS can be found on Homes England’s guidance page



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