Howard Farrand has been appointed as the new President of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) for the next 12 months and will lead its 22,000 members to deliver the government's target announced of 20,000 additional new affordable homes by 2011.

Howard is Group Chief Executive of West Mercia Housing Group, which consists of four housing associations: Harden, Kemble, Nexus and Whitefriars. The Group covers the regions of Birmingham, Coventry, Solihull, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Howard replaces Steve Benson, Managing Director of Testway Housing, who stood down on 16 June. He will be supported over the next year by Paddy Gray, who has been appointed CIH Vice President. Paddy is Director of Teaching and Learning at the School of Built Environment, University of Ulster.

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Howard said: "I am delighted to take on the office of CIH President, especially at a time when the Prime Minister has reiterated his commitment to social and affordable housing, with an additional £1.5 billion investment over the next two years.

"Two years ago CIH started an important debate about the reforms that are needed if we are to move towards a more stable and sustainable housing market. I am delighted that the work we have been doing with local authorities, housing organisations, private landlords, government agencies and Ministers has already seen some real positive outcomes.

"We will continue to build on our work with the sector to deliver much needed new homes and drive through important reforms in order to help realise the aspirations of millions of people."

(CD/JM)