Shortlisted parties bring market savvy and expertise to Glen Innes redevelopment

“We are really pleased with the level of interest shown from developers, builders and community housing organisations, including Iwi groups, to participate in the project,” said Sean Bignell, General Manager Asset Redevelopment. “The groups have clearly shown a commitment to collaborate to come up with the best proposals for northern Glen Innes.”

“Three groups have been short-listed, all of whom demonstrated capability and understanding of the project objectives, including the provision of new state housing, affordable housing and private housing. We are now looking forward to receiving their development proposals so we can determine which group would be the best one to partner with us on this exciting and innovative project.”

“The project is the first stage in a 20 year vision aimed at making Glen Innes a better place to live – where there is better quality, affordable rental housing, more home ownership, as well as improved transport, schools and employment opportunities.”

The shortlisted groups are required to submit Development Proposals by 22 December 2011. They are:

• Arrow International / Hopper Developments Limited / Southside Group Consortium
• AV Jennings Limited / Universal Homes / Canam Construction / URBIS Joint Venture
• Todd Property Group Limited / Ngati Whatua Joint Proposal

“Assessment of the proposals will go through a robust procurement process, and we expect to have a partnership agreement in place by mid-2012. From there we will work with the partners to develop plans further so we can share these with the community and invite feedback”, says Mr Bignell.

“We are committed to keeping tenants, home owners and the Glen Innes community updated as the project progresses. As the project is still in its very early stages, tenants can remain living in their homes until at least mid-2012 when we will have a clearer idea of how the project will proceed and be staged.”

“Affected tenants will be transferred to another state house. Housing New Zealand has around 1,500 houses in Glen Innes, so it’s highly likely that families wanting to remain living in the area will be able to do so,” he said.

All queries about the project should be directed to Graham Bodman at Housing New Zealand on phone 09 261 5702 or email graham.bodman@hnzc.co.nz.

Media Contact: Marie Winfield, marie.winfield@hnzc.co.nz, or phone 09 261 5239 or 021 245 0709.