Asif Bhatti, chair of independent housing provider Gloucester City Homes has announced the retirement of chief executive, Ashley Green at the end of March 2022.

Mr Bhatti said: "Naturally, we are very sad to see Ashley leave us, he has been our CEO since our inception in 2005, an exceptional leader and instrumental to our success, transforming our services and securing some significant achievements for both GCH and the City.

"We wish Ashley all the very best for his future retirement. He has left a great legacy and paved the way for an exciting future that focuses on customer centric services, long term investment in our current homes and the delivery of more affordable housing. Our search for a new chief executive to take over from Ashley in the new year has begun."

During his time at Gloucester City Homes, Mr Green is said to have helped deliver more than 300 new affordable homes to meet housing needs, with ambitious plans for an additional 400 new homes in and around the city by 2025.

He said: "This has been one of the most difficult decisions as I am so passionate about GCH, our customers and the people I work with. My decision has not been taken lightly and is with a heavy heart. I have worked continuously since the age of 16, joining Gloucester City Council in 1977.

"I was born in Gloucester and it has always been my ambition to do the very best for this great City. Sadly, it has all seemed to rush by in the blink of an eye.

"My commitment and drive have always been to provide excellent services and strong investment into our customers' homes and listening to their views so we can always improve. I am so proud that we have started to build more new affordable homes in the City and that was always my ambition."

"I work with fantastic people and great teams here at GCH who I will greatly miss and will be forever grateful for their dedication and support. I am certain that they will continue to be magnificent, doing their very best for our customers going forward. It is a pleasure to know that we are regarded as a Housing Association with a great reputation for delivery."

"It is now time to re-charge the batteries and to take a different path in my life and career whilst pursuing my interests and hobbies. I wish this fantastic organisation and everyone the very best in the future."