Orbit sets target to build and regenerate 5,700 homes by 2030

Orbit has unveiled a target to deliver 5,700 new homes and ‘regeneration properties’ in the next six years, as part of its new corporate strategy.

The 47,000-home housing association has said it will also increase its land-led, direct build capacity and aim to become the partner of choice for Homes England and local authorities in its operational area, which spans the Midlands, East and the South-east.

Orbit has said that 75% of the 5,700 homes will be affordable, split equally between social rent and shared ownership, and 25% will be for market sale.

The social housing provider, in its 2030 strategy which was developed in partnership with residents and staff, also said it will invest “a significant amount” in enhancing customer experience and prioritising services valued by customers.

The strategy sets out Orbit’s plans to work with its partners to deliver an efficient ‘right first time’ repairs service, which provides satisfaction for customers. 

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As part of the strategy, Orbit has said it will also focus on continuing to decarbonise its homes, operations and supply chain to achieve EPC C by 2030 and net zero by 2050, in line with government requirements.

It will be delivered in two phases, with a review of the plan scheduled for 2026, “to check progress and adapt if necessary”.

Phil Andrew, chief executive of Orbit Group, said: “We are at an exciting and pivotal point in Orbit’s journey. Our 2030 Strategy is a valuable opportunity to renew our strategic approach and realise our ambition of striving to provide amongst the best customer experience of any housing association in the country. We’ll look to achieve this by building and maintaining safe, quality homes that our customers love, both sustainably and at scale, all supported by excellent customer service”.

Andrew added: “We have a lot to do within a complex and ever-changing external environment. However, as a socially-driven, not-for-profit organisation, with a growing reputation as a quality developer, we are confident that we will be able to sharpen our operational focus through the lens of our customers, as well as play our part in tackling the UK’s housing crisis through the delivery of 5,700 new homes.”