Householders give a warm welcome to insulation improvements
Householders across Port Talbot are being given greater warmth and security thanks to a major Neighbourhood Renewal Scheme now in its second phase.
Hundreds of homes are being clad in new insulation panels and many are also getting improvements to other parts of their homes including windows, doors and roofs.
The scheme is funded by three programmes currently being delivered in the area; Port Talbot’s Vibrant and Viable Places (VVP) Regeneration Programme funded by the Welsh Government; The ARBED programme, also funded by Welsh Government, which aims to insulate so-called ‘hard to heat and treat’ properties and help to lift families out of fuel poverty, and the Sandfields East and Aberavon Renewal Area which was declared in 2004 and comes to an end in 2017.
Under the first phase of the VVP and ARBED Programmes more than 130 homes were improved and a similar number are being brought up to standard under the current phase.
Local contractors are currently working in the Port Talbot area of Eagle Street and Beverley Street but have also carried out extensive work across the Sandfields Estate.
The cost of the scheme is means-tested and some home owners are contributing up to 10 per cent of the cost.
Householders are delighted by the results of the project.
Julie Suhanski of Eagle Street said the scheme had made a huge difference to her.
“The rear of the building used to be very cold indeed. Exposed to the air on three sides, no matter what we tried the rooms were never warm. I even put wood cladding on the internal walls but without much success.
“Now it is warm and comfortable and I have nothing but praise for the team who carried out the work, they were fabulous,” she added.
In Farm Drive, Sandfields, Terry Crowley and his wife Elaine had a similar story.
He said: “The house is not only warmer since the work was carried out but the finish everywhere is excellent.
“We have lived here for 45 years and we would not want to move anywhere else.
“When the Council first approached us I did not want the work done but once I saw the result on other homes I decided to go for it.
“It was the best decision I could have made and the workmen who came here were outstanding as well,” he said.
Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council Cllr Ali Thomas OBE said: “These schemes are improving the quality of life of many of our residents and as an authority we are keen to continue the scheme where possible.
“It is particularly encouraging to hear the views of residents who are now enjoying these improvements.”
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