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<p>In 2005 and 2006 following careful consideration the Church Commissioners took
the decision to sell what were known as the Octavia Hill Estates, comprising approximately
1,580 flats and houses within the Greater London area.</p><p> </p><p>The sales, to
a joint venture between Grainger plc and Genesis Housing Group, were subject to the
residents’ leases, and the rights and obligations contained in these remained. A commitment
was made to engage with residents’ associations and to keep in touch with tenants
as the sales progressed to keep them fully informed. Some tenants had the right to
purchase their properties and this was communicated to the qualifying tenants.</p><p>
</p><p>In 1985 the Church Commissioners took the decision to sell their residential
property holdings in Brixton to a housing association. According to the records of
the Commissioners covenants were not placed on these properties and to the best of
knowledge these properties are still owned by a housing association.</p><p> </p><p>The
Church Commissioners are not and have never been a social housing provider and have
a statutory duty to deliver the best possible return on their investments to fund
the work and mission of the Church of England across the country. The Church Commissioners
continue to provide new housing across the country where they have land holdings and
affordable housing is a key part of that provision.</p><p> </p>
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