A new block of 28 apartments that will help Cardiff Council to expand its temporary accommodation for families in the city is nearing completion on the site of a former Morrisons supermarket in Pentwyn.
The new homes, on Pentwyn Drive, comprise 20 two-bedroom apartments and eight one-bedroom apartments in a three-storey building. The homes are being built by Willis Construction for Linc Cymru, a registered social landlord based in Cardiff, with funding support from the Welsh Government’s Social Housing Grant programme.
Earlier this year, the Council agreed to lease the block from the association and use them to house families who have experienced homelessness and were being housed in temporary accommodation, such as hotels and B&Bs around the city.
Facilities at the new development will include a landscaped courtyard which will provide green space for residents, dedicated refuse storage, limited onsite parking for four vehicles and a large cycle store with space for 48 bikes. The homes are close to bus stops to encourage residents to use sustainable transport options
Jo Yellen, Linc Cymru’s project manager (development) said: “This is an important development that is going to make such a difference to the lives of so many people. We are proud to have played our part in bringing these new much-needed homes to the city.”
As part of the contract and Linc’s social value and community benefits programme, Willis employed two apprentices who have learned their trades on the job and at college. One of these is a Linc resident who lives locally. “Every time we have these roles,” said Jo, “we work with Linc residents in the area and local families to make sure they can take advantage of these opportunities on their doorstep.
“These individuals will continue their apprenticeships on other developments but always know the part they played in building these new homes.”
The development has also seen the involvement of local schools who have participated with a local ceramicist and community interest group the Ministry of Life in the creation of a series of clay tiles (left) that will be featured on the new building when it is finished in early September.
Cllr Lynda Thorne, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: “We have worked with Linc Cymru before on a supported living scheme in Llanishen and know the excellent work they do
“As a council, we are committed to ending homelessness in Cardiff and this new development will give safe and secure accommodation to some of Cardiff’s most vulnerable families until appropriate permanent homes can be identified. As a council, we will provide floating support at the site and will be meeting residents regularly.”
