THE new tenant of a North Wales housing association is delighted that she has been able to stay in her local village in an innovative new home.

Two tenants have moved to two new Grwp Cynefin homes built off-site, as modular units, and erected at Maes Glyndwr, Cynwyd.

The two new homes are an addition to six traditionally built houses already owned by Grwp Cynefin on the site.

"It's been reassuring to be able to continue to live here in Cynwyd, a village that has been my home for over a quarter of a century, and where I have raised my family," said tenant Angela Bethan Gregory.

“I am so pleased that I spoke to my local county councillor for advice and that the housing officer of Grwp Cynefin made contact with me to say that two new houses were being built here.

"Within a few months, I have moved into an innovative house and settled well into my new home.”

The modular housing scheme, built in partnership with the Welsh Government's innovative housing programme, helps reduce energy costs for tenants.

The ready-made, two-bedroom homes are designed to retain heat, with environmentally friendly timber frames that help keep the properties warm.

“Everything runs on electricity here, where in my old home I had gas and electricity supply. We’re still trying to get used to the new heating system which is technologically clever.

“The design of the house is spot on, it flows well downstairs and the patio doors open out into the garden.

"The bedrooms are large, and there are very useful storage areas within the house.

"We are in a lovely location, it's quiet here, and I am enjoying being in my new home. The grandchildren are delighted to visit and are both enjoying the new house with gran!”

The contractor spent less time on site due to the modular construction method, and although there were some delay due to on-site drainage works, the process has had less impact on the local community as the work progressed.

The modular units were produced by specialist manufacturer F1 Modular from Newtown, Powys.

Shan Lloyd Williams, chief executive of Grwp Cynefin, said: "We are proud to provide our tenants with these high quality homes so they can live their modern lives comfortably.

"And hearing that the tenants are settling in and enjoying living in their homes is very positive.

“This project is an important part of our development programme, as we aim to build 120 new homes a year for the next few years, and are actively looking for more opportunities to develop.

"Building quality, affordable homes in rural areas such as Cynwyd helps to address the identified need, giving each and every one of us a sense of pride in our work - thank you to everyone involved.”

The Denbighshire councillor who represents Llandrillo residents Mabon ap Gwynfor said: “It has been a positive experience to assist two local tenants within Llandrillo to discuss their housing needs with Grwp Cynefin.

"Ensuring quality homes in a rural location like Cynwyd is always a challenge, and I take great pride in the fact that tenants who live and work locally have moved into these new homes.”

The new homes will be in addition to Grwp Cynefin’s 4,800 housing stock included within the association’s property portfolio.

Working across North Wales and north Powys, it strives to provide high-quality affordable homes that meet local community needs.

For more information, visit www.grwpcynefin.org or call 0300 111 2122.