Great places: The role housing associations can play in creating thriving communities

Abstract

Housing associations have an important role in addressing regional and local inequalities and creating thriving local areas. This paper explores the characteristics of housing associations which make them particularly suited to their role as community ‘anchor organisations’ — their substantial asset base, secure income, longevity and independence. It describes examples of successful place-making by housing associations and examines what more they and partners could do in future, including developing strong, long-term partnerships, engaging closely with residents and communities, directing their supply chains locally, and using their assets for the benefit of the wider community.