Two housing associations officially come together to create one of Greater Manchester’s largest providers of social housing, serving more than 47,000 residents.
Wythenshawe Community Housing Group (WCHG) and Southway Housing Trust have officially completed their merger, bringing the two organisations together under the interim trading name Southway Wythenshawe Homes.
The merger, completed on 2 November 2026, creating a larger, financially stronger housing provider managing more than 21,000 homes across South Manchester and beyond.
The organisation will be led by Chief Executive John Bowker, formerly Chief Executive of Southway Housing Trust, and WCHG Chair Nick Crofts.
The merger brings together two organisations with a shared commitment to providing high-quality homes, improving services, delivering better value for money and supporting thriving communities.
The organisation also has ambitions to build more than 3,200 new homes over the next five years, helping to address housing need across Greater Manchester.
John Bowker, Chief Executive of Southway Wythenshawe Homes, said:
“Today marks an exciting new chapter for our residents, colleagues and communities.
“Both organisations have a proud history of providing homes and supporting communities across Greater Manchester. By coming together, we can build on those strong foundations and achieve more than we could separately.
“Our focus is on making a real difference to people’s lives. That means investing in homes, improving the services residents rely on and creating more opportunities for the communities we serve.
“This is just the beginning. We’re looking forward to working with residents, colleagues and partners to shape a stronger future together.”
The merger follows a 10-week consultation which saw more than 2,000 residents share their views on the proposals. Feedback from residents helped inform the final decision and will continue to shape the priorities of Southway Wythenshawe Homes.
Nick Crofts, Chair of Southway Wythenshawe Homes, said:
“This merger brings together two organisations that share the same values and commitment to their communities.
“We have a real opportunity to strengthen the services we provide, invest more in homes and make a lasting difference across the neighbourhoods we serve.
“I’d like to thank everyone who contributed to the consultation and helped us reach this important milestone. Residents will continue to have a strong voice as we shape the future of our organisation.”
The combined organisation will operate as Southway Wythenshawe Homes until a new name and brand are introduced in spring 2027.