Trivallis, the housing association behind plans to demolish the entire Penrhys estate in the Rhondda and build 900 new homes, has appointed Wates Residential as its development partner. New images show how the estate could look once the transformation is complete.
Major milestone for regeneration project
The appointment follows a year-long procurement process and marks a major step forward for the project, which aims to regenerate one of Wales' most famous housing estates. Penrhys was formerly home to the largest public sector housing scheme in Wales.
The estate first opened with over 900 homes in 1968, but is now almost unrecognisable. During the 1980s, unemployment and other issues led to serious problems in the area, and in the 1990s almost two-thirds of the homes were demolished. Today, just 230 households, one small primary school, one corner shop and a takeaway remain.
Plans for 900 new homes
Under the new plans, Trivallis hopes to create 900 new homes over the next 10 years, consisting of a mixture of two, three, and four bedroom houses along with some bungalows and flats. The homes will have views of the valleys below and look set to be surrounded by trees and green spaces where possible.
Trivallis said Wates Residential was selected after being assessed against a range of criteria including experience, quality, values and commitment to community benefit. The developer is described as a "leading national family-owned residential developer and contractor that specialises in urban regeneration."
Community benefits and next steps
As part of the project, Wates will help create long term opportunities for local people through training, employment and skills programmes, while also supporting local businesses, suppliers and community organisations. Trivallis said the contract with Wates is expected to be signed in the coming weeks, after which work will move from the planning stage towards delivery.
The housing association is continuing discussions with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council as it seeks to secure planning permission by the end of the year. It submitted plans to build 109 new homes in Penrhys in July to kickstart the regeneration of the village.
Louise Attwood, executive director of development at Trivallis, said: "Appointing Wates Residential is a landmark moment for the regeneration of Penrhys. Following a thorough procurement process, we are delighted to have selected a partner that shares our ambition to create high-quality homes and lasting opportunities for local people."
Dave Bullock, Wales regional director of Wates Residential, said: "Penrhys is one of the most ambitious regeneration opportunities in Wales and we are delighted to have been selected by Trivallis as its development partner. Together we have an opportunity to create high-quality homes and lasting community benefits, while supporting the long-term future of Penrhys."
