Swansea Council to Purchase 141 Homes at New Garden Village Development

Swansea Council will buy 141 new homes. They are located within a large estate in Garden Village. A senior councillor shared this information. Seventy-one homes offer low-cost ownership. First-time buyers are the intended recipients.

The other seventy homes will become normal council houses. Low-cost means buying below market value. The council plans to invest £219 million. It will be spent over four years on housing.

This includes new homes and upgrade schemes. A council leader described it as significant. These 141 homes are part of a Persimmon Homes project. It’s near Garden Village and Gorseinon.

The development includes 750 properties. A new school and park are also planned there. The council will also build more homes. Some are planned for Bonymaen, plus acquisition from elsewhere.

Over £57 million goes to construction. It spans from 2025 to 2029. The £219 million will pay for housing upgrades too. Waunarlwydd, West Cross, and Penyrheol benefit.

Big projects include flat refurbishments. Croft Street and Griffith John Street flats are being renovated. Borrowing, grants, and budget funds cover the £219 million.

There is a backlog of housing repairs. Costs have increased lately. Rental income is lower than expected too. A new housing standard causes concern.

All houses must be highly energy efficient. Carbon neutrality would cost nearly £900 million. A council report calls this unaffordable. One council member called the investment large.

It can create local jobs. It could also significantly boost the economy. Councils manage budgets for housing and spending.

Swansea plans £46 million for upkeep. They will allocate from the revenue account in 2025-26. Final decisions arrive on March 6.