Seven Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) funds have confirmed their intention to join the Border to Coast Pensions Partnership, ahead of the government's 30 September partner selection deadline. 

Following a thorough review process and detailed engagement with Border to Coast, the seven funds, Cambridgeshire, East Sussex, Essex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Northamptonshire and West Sussex, have entered exclusive discussions on joining the pool.

These funds, which have around £45bn of investments, were previously part of the Access pool, but were forced to look for new pooling partners after both Access and Brunel Pensions Partnership failed to receive the green light as part of the government's fit for the future policy. 

Whilst Access recently confirmed that its 11 LGPS partner funds are unlikely to choose a single pooling partner, the news that seven of the funds have chosen the same partner was highlighted as the start of a "new collaborative partnership" by Border to Cost.

Border to Coast CEO, Rachel Elwell: “We’re delighted that these seven funds have selected Border to Coast as their pool of choice. This decision to form a new partnership is reflective of our joint commitment to collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose.

"In coming together, we can build on the collective experience and capabilities of all funds to not only strengthen our collective voice, but enhance our combined ability to deliver robust, sustainable, and cost-effective outcomes for partner funds.”

Border to Coast joint committee chair, George Jabbour, echoed this, stating: “We’re really pleased that these funds have signalled their intent to work with us to form a new partnership, as they share our values of collaboration, with a focus on openness.

"Together, we believe we can harness our combined strengths to make a difference for the LGPS.”

Commenting on behalf of the West Sussex Pension Fund, Councillor Jeremy Hunt, added: "Following this robust evaluation, seven funds have chosen to enter exclusive discussions with Border to Coast Pensions Partnership as their preferred future pooling partner.

“The Border to Coast Pensions Partnership offers a strong governance framework and a collaborative approach. Border to Coast’s proven track record gives us confidence in a smooth transition and continued excellence in service delivery.”

“We would also like to thank colleagues across the LGPS community for the positive and constructive manner in which they have engaged with us throughout this process.”

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