The new deal is designed to save £100m over the next decade on a mixture of planned and responsive repairs for 200,000 residents.

The initial deal is for five years with an option to extend for another five.

Mark Rogers, Group Chief Executive at Circle, said: “As one of the UK’s largest housing groups, we are using our size not only to create a better service for our 200,000 residents, but also to deliver better value for money, saving up to £100 million in ten years.

“We have been really impressed by the high standards of the final bids presented to us. All of our shortlisted contractors put in a phenomenal effort, really taking the time to understand our organisation and what our customers want from us.

“They also share our passion for putting more back into the communities we work in. We would like to thank all involved for their support in this, and congratulate the preferred bidders who received the highest scores against a very strong field.”

Circle is now running a full customer consultation with leaseholders and service charge payers on the preferred bidders. Contracts will be awarded once this process has been completed and any feedback from customers or shortlisted bidders has been taken into account.

Rob Leitch, Regional Managing Director, Kier Services said: “Kier are delighted to have been selected to work with Circle. We are totally committed to enhancing the life chances of Circle’s customers and we are very much looking forward to working together in partnership over the next 10 years.”

Guy Wakeley, Chief Executive, Morrison said: “We are thrilled to have been announced as the preferred bidder for lots one and two of Circle’s new responsive repairs service.

“Morrison’s market leading combination of great customer service, value for money and footprint, means we will not only be able to deliver a better service to its customers in terms of performance and quality but also to the communities in which they live.”

Jeffrey Adams, United House, Group CEO said: “United House are really pleased to continue our long term relationship with Circle Housing Group improving homes for their residents. We are committed to making this new project a success delivering further efficiencies, creating employment and improving the life chances of the communities in which we will be working. “