THE merger of the region's two major housing associations will be good news for Burnley tenants, according to the chairwoman of the newly formed Contour Housing Group.

The group has been formed from the merger of Collingwood Housing Association with Portico Housing Association and will own or manage more than 13,000 properties in 27 local areas including Burnley, Blackburn, Darwen and Chorley.

Chairwoman Jo Miller said: "The ethos of the associations has always been customer focused. That will not change. In fact each organisation is bringing specific skills and experience and together and we will provide a greater level of service and support for tenants, residents, customers, staff and partners."

All tenants and residents have been kept informed of the merger talks and residents associations have been involved in the consultation process.