A vacant and derelict former commercial building in Neath Abbey has been given a new lease of life, having been fully refurbished and transformed into three new apartments, thanks to a grant from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Once a newsagents, the building has stood empty for several years and following previous unfinished attempts at refurbishment, RWP Properties acquired the premises at St John’s Terrace.
It has since been renovated and converted into three modern and stylish apartments, providing much needed, high quality living accommodation for the local area.
The refurbishment was carried out by Glynneath based contractor, Alpha Building Group, who have upgraded the premises to meet modern living standards, with a focus on energy efficiency and making significant internal and external aesthetic enhancements.
Internal renovations included installation of central heating and energy efficient boilers, a complete revamp of electrical and plumbing systems, fresh plaster and decoration throughout, with modern kitchens and bathrooms fitted, providing functionality and contemporary style.
Externally, a new roof and rainwater goods have been installed and the building has been fitted with wall insulation to further enhance energy efficiency. The external walls have been completely re-rendered.
The capital renovation project has been part-funded by Neath Port Talbot Council’s Valleys and Villages Prosperity Fund (VVPF) through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
VVPF is a capital grant that formed part of the Council’s package of grant schemes that was available during 2023 and 2024, thanks to the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Richard Powell, Director of RWP Properties Ltd. said: “We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Neath Port Talbot Council for its invaluable support in making this project a success. Thanks to the grant funding, we have been able to transform an empty, old commercial building into three new homes for families within the borough.”
“Without this essential funding, the project would not have been possible. Additionally, RWP would like to express thanks to Alpha Building Group Ltd for its dedication and expertise in completing this project, helping us provide much-needed housing in the community.”
Cllr Jeremy Hurley, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Economic Growth at Neath Port Talbot Council said: “This is another great example of a derelict building being saved from further disrepair and brought back into functional use, which is exactly what the Valleys and Villages Prosperity Fund was designed to do.
“This project has delivered three high quality and energy efficient new homes, which will help to address the need for local housing in the area – a great achievement!”
