International law firm Trowers & Hamlins has advised the Church of England's registered provider, Church Housing Association Limited (CHAL), on its first acquisition of seven affordable homes.
The acquisition marks a significant milestone for CHAL as it establishes its initial portfolio of affordable housing. The homes, located in Innsworth, Gloucestershire, will be owned by CHAL and let to its tenants, with Bromford (part of Bromford Flagship LiveWest) managing the properties on its behalf under a newly agreed management arrangement.
Trowers advised on CHAL on all legal aspects of the acquisition, including the structuring of its strategic relationship with Bromford and delivering the transaction within a tight timeframe to enable residents to move into their homes before Christmas.
The announcement follows Trowers advising the Church of England, in 2025, on the establishment and registration of Church Housing Association as a registered provider of social housing.
Aileen Evans, Project Director at Church Housing, commented:
"The whole team at Trowers were excellent in supporting the acquisition of CHA's first homes. The transaction was complex and throughout we were brilliantly advised by Joe, Jasmin and team who were diligent, thoughtful and advised us well. The quality of their advice coupled with the promptness of their responses meant that we made sure that our new tenants were able to celebrate Christmas in their new homes."
Joe Holland, Senior Associate in the Real Estate team at Trowers, added:
"This was a landmark transaction for CHAL and an important step in building its affordable housing portfolio. We were pleased to support CHAL on this complex first acquisition, working collaboratively to structure arrangements with Bromford and ensure the homes were delivered within a tight timeframe."
Jasmin Andrews, Associate in the Planning team at Trowers, said:
"With demand for affordable housing continuing to rise across the UK, transactions like this play an important role in addressing that need. It is rewarding to have helped establish a platform that will support the delivery of much-needed homes and create a positive impact for local communities."
The Trowers team was led by Joe and Jasmin, supported by Partners Ru Anwar (Real Estate) and Rory Stracey (Planning).
