Renovations have now been completed at the site of the former Sparks Education Centre in Blaenymaes, which has been converted into four residential flats.
The completed project features 2 one-bedroom apartments and 2 two-bedroom apartments, bringing back to life a disused building that has been out of use for a number of years.
Additional tree planting and hedgerows, as well as the installation of bird and bat boxes, will help boost the community’s green credentials and biodiversity.
Funding for the latest council-led More Homes programme has been acquired through the Welsh Government Transitional Accommodation Capital Funding programme along with additional funding via the council’s housing revenue account.
The refurbishment of the old building into flats has been designed and completed by the council’s Building Services Team.
Andrea Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Service Transformation, said:
“One of our aims, in terms of increasing our overall housing stock in Swansea, is to look at our options for repurposing disused council-owned properties.
“This latest scheme in Blaenymaes is another excellent example of our efforts to make use of existing buildings across the city, converting them into much needed council accommodation.”
The council has already completed similar projects to help boost its housing stock, with schemes completed at the former Penlan and Eastside District Housing Offices, transforming them into new apartments.
Contractors have also recently moved onto a site in Manselton where the former educational facility – Brondeg House, has been demolished, making way for the development of 13 new council homes.
Cllr Lewis added: “This is part of a significant investment by the Council – more than £55 million has been pledged towards housing for 2024/25 and we have committed to spending £250 million during the next five years.
“Our commitment will ensure we can ease pressures on our current housing waiting list and provide modern, safe and affordable housing for those who need it most.”
[Lead image: Swansea Council]
