The Peabody Trust used an LHC Network framework arrangement to supply high specification, stylish kitchens. Using the LHC Network, Peabody avoided the need to go through the vigorous tendering process, saving both time and resources, while achieving efficiency gains.
David Lee, Project Manager at Peabody Trust, said: "The Government's drive towards efficiency led many residents mistakenly to conclude that costs cutting strategies would come into force with a subsequent downturn in the quality of fixtures and fittings installed in their homes.
"In reality, quite the opposite scenario is true. At Peabody, we are committed to keeping all the homes we own and manage in excellent condition using only the finest quality products.
"By using LHC Network, residents received a choice of kitchen specification of the highest standard, and intended work began more quickly and efficiently, saving us time, resource and money. As a result, the living areas we have worked on are more visually appealing and high performing."
LHC Network (www.lhc.gov.uk) is the latest initiative from LHC, a not-for-profit organisation specialising in public sector building procurement. Members of the network gain access to 13 pre-tendered framework arrangements or negotiated agreements, which are all pre-tendered in an OJEU compliant matter.
Covering the most frequently required building product sector, LHC Network offers procurement of windows and doors, kitchens and bathrooms, external envelope repairs, insulation and associated repairs and a newly launched unique heating management services arrangement.
David Cowans, Chief Executive of Places for People, denied reports that the Group is about to float on the stock exchange. He did, however, acknowledge that the issue of equity investment in RSLs was increasingly important.
In a statement Mr Cowans said: "There have been a number of articles in the media in recent days suggesting that Places for People is looking to float on the stock exchange.
"The situation is that the Places for People Group is not currently exploring flotation - a move that would be impossible under current legislation anyway, even if the Group wished to follow that course of action.
"The stories seem to have originated from a response the Group made to a consultation document issued by the Housing Corporation on finance and regulation last year.
"In our response we outlined a number of options whereby organisations in the social housing sector could increase their income.
"While the issue of equity investment in RSLs is not a new one, the articles have resurfaced the debate that I believe the sector needs to have if we are to generate the investment needed to deliver the housing requirements of the future.
"Everyone accepts that current levels of house building, especially affordable housing, are inadequate. The question is what can we do to increase output and improve services to existing and future customers?
"To do this we cannot rule any option out, and we will be working closely with the Housing Corporation, Professor Martin Cave and anybody else with an interest in these issues to identify the best set of opportunities for the future."
Places for People provides a diverse range of products and services to deliver high quality, safe and sustainable communities. The Group employs 2,500 people. It comprises specialist companies that provide housing for affordable rent, market rent and sale, commercial property, financial services, care and support services, regeneration products and childcare.