ALMOST £4 million has been invested in sheltered housing schemes at sites in Meirionnydd over the last fifteen months, providing 140 jobs locally.

Four sites have been transformed following substantial improvement work from Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd (CCG) at Hafan Deg, Barmouth; Bro Llewelyn, Penrhyndeudraeth; Pentreuchaf, Dyffryn Ardudwy and Cysgod y Coleg, Y Bala.

Many local workers were employed by the main contractors, Lovell. Seventeen contractors from the area were also sub-contracted to carry out various aspects of the work.

The external improvement work included re-rending work on some of the buildings and installing new windows and doors as well as plastering and insulation work. Internal improvement work includes installing new flooring kitchens and bathrooms. A lift has also been fitted in some of the buildings to ensure disable access, and some have received a new heating system.

CCG chief executive, Ffrancon Williams said: “This is the latest investment to come out of the £136 million Welsh Housing Quality Standard (WHQS) investment programme. Most of our houses have now been renewed, and I’m glad that our sheltered houses now also reach the standard.

“We have been determined from day one to create a lasting legacy and having a positive impact on local communities in terms of our customers’ well-being, creating jobs and making a significant contribution to the local economy. We have invested millions in this particular project to improve our sheltered housing, however the economic benefits to the area go much further.”