Swansea-based housing association Beacon Cymru has completed its first self-delivery development in Carmarthenshire, bringing 47 affordable homes to the village of Llannon, near Cross Hands.
The development comprises a mix of two, three and four-bedroom houses and bungalows, all built to Welsh Government standards and achieving Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) A ratings. Renewable technologies, including solar panels, have been incorporated to reduce energy costs for future residents.
Despite the complexities of a site with a 16 metre level difference from top to bottom, the project was delivered on time and to a high standard, with strong performance across construction quality, health and safety, and supply chain management.
The development was supported by funding from the Social Housing Grant (SHG) from Welsh Government.
Beacon said its self-delivery model has allowed for:
- improved control of design, specification and quality
- increased use of local contractors and suppliers
- greater influence over social value contributions
- enhanced health and safety oversight
- stronger programme management
Significant investment was retained within the local economy through the use of a predominantly local supply chain, it added. Employment and training opportunities were also provided for local people through subcontractor partnerships.
Rhianydd Jenkins, Executive Director of Development and Growth for Beacon, said:
“This project marks a major milestone for Beacon. Delivering our first self-managed development demonstrates the strengths of this approach and our commitment to high-quality, affordable homes. We are proud of the collaboration with local partners and delighted that the success of this development has enabled us to move forward with our next self-delivery project in Swansea Waterfront.”
