<p>The Department for Communities and Local Government has delayed its decision on whether to merge the Housing Corporation and English Partnerships.</p> <p>The DCLG was due to announce the conclusions of a review of its housing delivery functions before the parliamentary summer recess – with a merger of the key agencies being the expected outcome. But it has instead decided to “extend the remit of the review to consider the DCLG’s own delivery functions.”</p> <p>Communities and local government secretary Ruth Kelly said: “I have asked officials to carry our further work on options for reform, from strengthening the existing organisations, to the creation of a new national agency. As part of that I want to give rigorous consideration to how best housing and regeneration functions that currently sit within DCLG, fit into the delivery chain, to ensure that we are making the best use of our skills, assets and investment.”</p> <p>English Partnerships chairman Margaret Ford said the agency was “very glad” the minister planned to take more time to consider the review. It is understood that the minister’s thoughts are “aligned” with EP’s, in terms of the need to drive through greater efficiencies.</p> <p>Industry insiders claim Kelly is keen to reconsider …