Arcon Housing Association specialist housing scheme inviting expressions of interest

Arcon Housing Association is a well established Housing Association based in the centre of Manchester with 1,200 properties in management.

Whilst the majority of their properties are general needs homes, one of their values and objectives is to provide housing to specialist care providers. At present they have 6 schemes of this type in Manchester (including Marillac House) and these are leased to 5 different charities who provide care and support to adults with learning difficulties as well as people with drug and alcohol problems.

Expressions of interest
Arcon Housing Association are seeking expressions of interest from suitable organisations so that Marillac House can continue to be used for the provision of specialist care. Arcon are open to considering all suitable proposals that will provide a sustainable and viable project that meets their aims and objectives.
Arcon envisage however that this will probably involve the chosen care provider leasing the property from us with Arcon being responsible for structural repairs and landlord’s fittings and the lessee responsible for other repairs.

However, Arcon are open to consider other options that are feasible and deliver value for money.

The property was purpose built as a mother and baby hostel in 1994 and leased to Caritas (formerly the Catholic Children’s Rescue Society) from then until 2012 when Supporting People funding was withdrawn. It was then leased to another organisation who provided similar support and care to the same client group but they have unfortunately not been able to attract a sufficient number of referrals and funding from Local Authorities and other agencies to ensure that the scheme is viable.

Consequently Arcon have regrettably had to terminate the lease and expect that vacant possession will be obtained in early April 2014.

Process, timetable and contact details
Arcon anticipate that the selection process will take several months with an assessment of the expressions of interest received being the first stage.

To express an interest complete the form attached by Wednesday 30 April 14.

Arcon appreciate that prospective users will wish to view the premises as soon as possible and this can be arranged once Arcon have received your outline proposal and secured vacant possession.

Once the preliminary assessment stage has been completed, Arcon will look to agree terms and conditions on a negotiated basis with the organisation whose scheme/project best meets their values and objectives and fulfils their requirements regarding viability and sustainability.

For further information, contact Peter Schilizzi, Chief Executive or David Lovelady, Housing Director, on 0161 214 4120, or email: [email protected], or [email protected].