Abandoned and derelict Brynmefys Estate in Llanelli to be demolished

Carmarthenshire Council has announced that it is to demolish the majority of homes on the Brynmefys Estate in Llanelli – with just three pairs of semi detached homes to remain (with only 3 of those remaining homes being occupied).

The estate has become an eyesore over the years with the derelict and dilapidated buildings slowly crumbling away.

Brynmefys and the neighbouring estate of Maengwynne were built in the 1950s. Maengwynne was refurbished in the early 2000s. The council says that due to the “non-traditional construction” of the properties on Brynmefys, however, they were unable to be refurbished using the same method as that used in Maengwynne.

The Council bought the majority of owner-occupied homes in Brynmefys and found alternative housing for the residents. Some homeowners decided to stay at the estate. The Council say they have tried to partner with private developers to develop the estate and, despite some interest, none have come to fruition.

Carmarthenshire Council say they’ve now decided demolition is in the best interests of the residents themselves, the local community and the Council itself. The Council added that it has considered whether it could build more council homes on the site, but felt its location, and cost of redevelopment, will not make this option feasible.

Demolition is planned for November 2023 taking account of the ecological issues on the site and the ecological mitigation measures that will need to be completed before demolition can begin.

Carmarthenshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Homes, Cllr Linda Evans said: “I am glad that, after a number of attempts to try to redevelop, we are finally able to progress with the work of improving the Brynmefys estate for its existing residents and the neighbouring community.

“I acknowledge that this process may take a bit more time because of the need to protect the wildlife but I am pleased we now have clear plans in place.”

Local County Councillors Martyn Palfreman and Edward Skinner added: “It’s good news that we have now found a way forward with the Brynmefys issue and to address concerns expressed by local people about the current condition of the estate. We would like to thank residents on the estate and the wider community for their continued patience as the agreed work takes place over the coming months.”

(Lead image: Google Maps)