On June 17th, in anticipation of the Glanffrwd Development opening, Tai Calon hosted a progress event for its first housing development project, which aims to provide energy-efficient, affordable, high-quality homes for the community.

Tai Calon exists to inspire its people so that they go beyond affordable housing and are driven to create vibrant communities across Blaenau Gwent. This is the first development of many, as Tai Calon intends to build 67 new homes by the end of 2025, with planning in place for 133 more.

The progress event, held at the Glanffrwd site, gathered the likes of stakeholders and colleagues to celebrate the advancements made in this ambitious project.

During the event, Welsh Government, Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council (BGCBC), Tai Calon Board members, Willis Construction, Strong’s Employers Agent, and Quantity Surveyors gathered to discuss the progress made in preparation for completion. The Glanffrwd development will deliver 15 houses, 4 bungalows, and 4 walk-up flats. The much-needed new energy-efficient affordable homes will significantly benefit Blaenau Gwent residents.

Willis Construction Ltd, a reputable Welsh contractor taking on the build has excelled in inspections carried out by the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS), receiving an ‘Excellent’ score. This highlights the commitment to minimising disruption, respecting the local community and ensuring a positive impact throughout construction.

Tai Calon is delighted that the development was awarded ‘Bronze’ in the 2024 CCS National Site Awards. The Awards are one of the most recognised in the construction industry and represent an exceptional accolade that identifies sites that have made the greatest contribution towards improving the image of construction.

Ellie Fry, Corporate Director of Regeneration and Community Services at Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, said about the new Glanffrwd site,

“Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council are overjoyed to be working in collaboration with Welsh Government to support Tai Calon Community Housing, to bring forward their very first residential development site, at Glanffrwd, Ebbw Vale. The 23 homes all of which are EPC A rated, with PV Solar Panels and battery storage will ensure the new residents will see the impact of these measures, with reduced energy bills, which is greatly welcome during the cost of living crisis. The variety of homes including family houses, flats, and a few bungalows will all meet the space standards set by Welsh Government and bringing much needed new, accessible lifetime homes to the of residents of Blaenau Gwent.  We would wish to see this partnership continue to flourish to enable Tai Calon to build more in the future.”

The aim for completion was Autumn 2024, and fortunately, this has been brought forward to the end of Summer.

At Tai Calon, we look forward to welcoming the first tenants to their new homes very soon.