Grŵp Cynefin working with Cyngor Gwynedd to turn empty buildings into homes

Grŵp Cynefin, in partnership with Welsh Government and Cyngor Gwynedd, has brought four empty properties in Gwynedd back to life as part of its commitment to providing affordable homes and sustaining rural communities.

The properties, in Porthmadog, Trefor, Penrhosgarnedd and Brynrefail, have been transformed from empty properties into modern, energy efficient and accessible family homes.

It’s part of the Welsh Government’s Transitional Accommodation Capital Programme (TACP) which aims to increase the availability of affordable homes in Wales by:

• bringing unused and mothballed properties back into use
• remodelling existing accommodation
• converting buildings into good-quality accommodation
• using modern methods of construction as a medium-term form of housing on some sites as they are developed for permanent housing.

The work is being carried out and project managed by our partnering contractor  ‘Novus Property Solutions’ who specialise in this type of refurbishment projects.

For one of the new tenants, it has meant a change of life for her and her young child.

“I was homeless and living in short-term accommodation for the homeless,” says Mia.

It’s nice knowing I don’t need to move again with the little one, we’re just happy here. We feel happy and safe.

Arwyn Evans, Head of Development, Grŵp Cynefin, says:

“The completion of the TACP properties in Gwynedd is testament to our ongoing commitment to creating vibrant and sustainable communities.

There is a housing crisis across Wales and Grŵp Cynefin is dedicated to addressing this issue in the counties we operate.

“The collaboration between ourselves, and Cyngor Gwynedd is a result of our shared vision to tackling the housing challenges in Gwynedd and creating sustainable and inclusive housing solutions.

“We are committed to working with local authorities, communities, and the Welsh Government to making a positive and lasting change.”

Councillor Craig ab Iago, Cyngor Gwynedd Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, says:

“I wholeheartedly welcome the news that empty buildings across Gwynedd are being turned into homes for those worst impacted by the housing crisis in the county.

“Supporting the people of Gwynedd to live in suitable and affordable homes in their own communities is of the highest priority for Cyngor Gwynedd. We are excited to continue our collaboration with Grŵp Cynefin and the Welsh Government on this scheme, working together to tackle the housing crisis head-on.

“As a result of the purchase of these properties, more housing will be available for individuals and families to move from unsuitable emergency accommodations such as hotels and B&Bs into good quality interim accommodation, allowing people to move ahead with their lives and regain stability.”

Grŵp Cynefin is working with Cyngor Gwynedd to develop further units in Cricieth and with Conwy, Denbighshire and Anglesey councils to bring other properties back into use as homes, with TACP funding.

For further information, please contact Mari Williams, Communications and Marketing Manager, Grŵp Cynefin mari.williams@grwpcynefin.org

07970 142 305

28.02.24