£13 million project for seaside housing

WORK is set to begin on a £13 million regeneration project that will see the creation of 55 new homes and the transformation of 72 existing homes near Aberavon Beach.

Originally built in the 1950s, the landmark County Flats benefit from views of the seafront but have been in desperate need of modernisation in recent years.

In keeping with their commitment to become carbon neutral by 2030, social housing provider Tai Tarian said it would use the redevelopment to modernise the flats and introduce a series of energy-efficient measures.

According to Tai Tarian the development will maximise the use of natural insulation to help keep the homes warm and reduce the amount of energy needed to heat them. They will also include solar panels, battery storage and intelligent energy systems that will allow each home to interact with the grid, making them “among the most environmentallyfriendly homes in Wales”.

The development will be funded by the Welsh Government’s social housing grant and innovative housing programme (IHP), aimed at building more environmentallyfriendly homes whilst meeting their de-carbonisation housing pledge.

Neath-based company JG Hale Construction has been contracted to do the work and has committed to creating 77 local jobs and training opportunities. The firm will also work with local supply chains to ensure maximum community and financial benefits from the project.

Existing residents of the County Flats will be relocated to other Tai Tarian properties so the redevelopment work can be carried out safely.

Tai Tarian director of assets Andrew Carey said: “The County Flats are a prominent part of the Aberavon seafront. Built in the 1950s, the flats are looking tired and are in desperate need of updating.

“This development will do just that and will provide homes that will be amongst the most energyefficient and sustainable homes in Wales. This will make a huge difference to the running costs for our tenants.

“It’s fantastic that we will be working with JG Hale Construction, which has committed to using local products and local people.

“Demand is high to live in one of the most picturesque parts of the borough, so we are pleased to be able to add an additional 55 homes to this area.”

David Harrhy, managing director at JG Hale Construction and Sevenoaks Modular, added: “JG Hale Construction are delighted to have the opportunity to deliver this innovative development and further bolster our flourishing relationship with Tai Tarian.

“The project will deliver much-needed sustainable homes within Neath Port Talbot.”