The Social and Affordable Homes Programme (SAHP) 2026–36 is the next major funding programme designed to help address the shortage of affordable housing across the capital.
The funding replaces the Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) 2021–26 and provides long-term funding to help councils and housing associations plan and build at scale.
The programme is backed by up to £11.7 billion in funding for London and runs for 10 years, providing greater certainty than previous programmes.
Why the SAHP programme is important
SAHP is important because it focuses on homes that are genuinely affordable for Londoners.
At least 60% of homes delivered are expected to be for social rent, which is aimed at households with the greatest need.
By providing long-term funding, SAHP helps organisations plan larger and more complex schemes, including regeneration projects, with greater confidence.
How SAHP compares to AHP 2021–26
The Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) 2021–26 ran for five years and provided around £4 billion of funding for affordable homes in London. The new SAHP:
- Runs for 10 years instead of five
- Provides significantly more funding
- Places a stronger emphasis on social rent
- Offers greater flexibility for long-term delivery and regeneration
Regeneration and new-build housing
SAHP can support building regeneration where it results in more and better affordable homes overall.
This includes replacing older housing stock with new homes and increasing the total number of affordable homes on a site.
When does the bidding open?
For London:
• Bidding opens: February 2026
• Bidding closes: April 2026
Further guidance will be published by the GLA closer to the bidding window.
Using the LHC New Build Housing Construction (H2) Framework
Delivering affordable homes under SAHP requires strong procurement and cost control.
The LHC New Build Housing Construction (H2) framework can support delivery by:
- Providing access to pre-qualified contractors
- Reducing procurement time and risk
- Supporting value for money and compliance
- Being suitable for new-build and regeneration projects
Using a recognised framework like H2 can help organisations move from funding approval to construction more efficiently.