01 December 2000

Link and Gap Merger

Merger Creates Scotland's Largest Housing Association

Link Housing Association today ( 01/12/2000 ) became the largest organisation of its type in Scotland, with more than 6200 rented houses in management across the country.

The move follows a merger with Gap Housing Association and the takeover of responsibilities for their 2600 homes in Glasgow and the West of Scotland.

The change, which has the backing of both organisations and the approval of regulator Scottish Homes, paves the way for substantial investment in new or improved houses, including a backlog of major repairs to the Gap properties held up as a result of financial difficulties and an independent review of the running of the association carried out last year.

The merger will see Link emerge as a major strategic housing player employing almost 200 staff, located in five main offices and 15 other satellite management bases at a local level.

Gap decided last year to approach all housing associations in Scotland, seeking a partner, to help deliver a backlog of major improvement and repair projects and enhance services to tenants.

"Link emerged from the process as the most suitable option, financially sound and stable and well placed to take forward a major programme of improvements and deliver high quality services to our tenants," said Gap chairman Mark Ewing. "The board of Gap are delighted at the proposals from Link which we believe will build on the strengths of our organisation and secure the future needs and aspirations or our tenants and staff".

Douglas Sievewright, chairman of Link said "This is an exciting opportunity for us to build on our strong track record and develop a first class , professional housing association. We acknowledge the support we have had from representatives of Gap's tenants and we will do everything in our power to live up to their expectations".

Page last updated on Wednesday, 23 July 2008