North West social landlord appoints 11 firms to £6.4m framework

The framework has been divided into the following lots:

1. Development and specialist property transactions
2. Sales and routine property transactions
3. Corporate and Finance
4. Employment and HR
5. Housing Management

The successful firms were:

• Anthony Collins (lots 3, 4)
• Brabners (1, 2, 3, 5)
• Capsticks (1, 3, 4, 5)
• Clarke Willmott (5)
• Devonshires (3)
• Forbes Solicitors (2, 3)
• Penningtons Manches Cooper (1, 3)
• Shakespeare Martineau (5)
• Sharratts London (1, 2)
• Ward Hadaway (1, 2)
• Weightmans (1, 2, 4)

The estimated contract dates are 29 December 2025 to 29 December 2029, with optional 4 x 12 month extensions to 29 December 2033.

The estimated value of the framework, which was conducted under the Procurement Act 2023, is £6.48m.

The social landlord said the framework expands on a previous one "in order to support Torus’ increasing needs as it embarks on a substantial growth strategy that will see a significant uplift in the number of new homes it builds beyond the 1,000 a year it currently delivers.

"Alongside legal expertise, appointed firms will deliver measurable social value outcomes aligned to Torus’ mission of growing stronger communities."

Torus Group Chief Executive, Steve Coffey, said: “Expanding our framework reflects the ambition of our growth strategy that will require significantly more legal support and expertise.

“A key part of this growth is tackling the housing shortage in our communities and this will be addressed with our new housebuilding programme where we are looking to gain Strategic Partner Plus status with Homes England."

Coffey added: “The response, quality and quantity of tenders received to the legal framework was excellent with some existing law firms retained and new companies added.

“We are really pleased to welcome everyone on board as they play an intrinsic role as key partners helping us delivery crucial services to our tenants and communities.”

Torus operates in 11 local authorities (Cheshire East, Cheshire West and Chester, Knowsley, Halton, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens, Warrington, West Lancashire, Wigan, Wirral).