THREE of Newport's landmark buildings have been totally transformed in a £12.5m refurbishment programme.

On the outside there is no getting away from the fact that the buildings look totally different. Once drab they are now covered in insulated, coloured aluminium panels.

But the transformation has also gone on inside the flats, thanks to the work done by housing association Newport City Homes.

As part of their commitment to bring the city's housing stock up to the Welsh Housing Quality Standard they have been refurbished inside and out at a cost of £12.5m.

Assembly Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty, Lesley Griffiths visited Newport yesterday to see at first hand the result of the investment. She visited tenants at Greenwood, the1970s block in the St Julian's part of the city.

The Minister, greeted by Board Chairman of Newport City Homes, Chris England, and chief executive Ceri Doyle, was invited to take in the views from the recently refurbished penthouse apartments before visiting two residents in their homes to get their opinion on the renovations.

Greenwood was originally built in 1974, and from 2013 each of the 83 flats has received a new kitchen, bathroom, double glazing, heating system and they have been re-wired.

Resident of 30 years, Michael Bowers, age 70, originally lived in one of the block's bedsits. But following the works has moved into a one bed flat, complete with a balcony.

He said: “I needed the extra space as I have a large collection of books and most of them had to be stored in boxes, but now I can display them on shelves.

“It’s a lovely flat and I have great views.”

Eric Lines, 56, moved into his flat in February.

He said: “I’m really happy here as the flat is lovely so I could just move straight in with no decoration required.

“I have got to know my neighbours along my corridor and there is a common room and it’s a lovely community here.”

The works have been carried out by main contractor Wates Living Space