Factory delivers first instant-build affordable homes
Western Mail: 22 April 2006
The first modular housing scheme for a Registered Social Landlord (RSL) in Wales has been delivered on-site at Highfields, Blackwood.
Developed by Fairlake Properties for Charter Housing Association – both members of Newport-based Seren Group – this scheme pilots off-site modular construction, a method of fabrication which exploits new technologies and increases efficiency.
 Rather than being constructed on site the factory-made modules were produced by MCCI, a local company that has two factories within Caerphilly County Borough. The modules were transported directly to site and assembled in less than three days.
Funded in part by the Welsh Assembly Government, this innovative project is a result of a partnership between Caerphilly council and the Seren Group – one of Wales' largest housing and care providers.
Darrell Bolton at Seren Group said, “Both the Welsh Assembly Government and Office of the Deputy Prime Minister see this as an important tool in providing the number of affordable homes that are required in Wales".
The ground-breaking scheme comprises two two-bedroom and four one-bedroom flats and has been developed on land adjacent to Seren Group's recently opened extra care scheme, Cefn Glas.
The elderly residents who will be offered homes at the new development will be able to enjoy the range of facilities at Cefn Glas including a restaurant, hairdressing/beauty salon, physiotherapy room and day centre.
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