NEWPORT City Homes has announced it will be investing £4.2m to improve its properties in Somerton and St Julians.

The money will be spent on the outside of properties, ensuring they are wind and water tight, while also improving energy efficiency and the overall appearance of homes.

Interim head of maintenance Malachy Doyle said: “As part of our commitment to invest in homes and neighbourhoods, Newport City Homes is investing £4.2million in homes in Somerton and St Julian’s to improve their thermal insulation.

“The work involves replacing roofs and installing external wall insulation.

“For residents, this should make homes more energy efficient as well as improving the appearance of the property.”

Construction company Mi-space has been selected to carry out the work, which will be phased over the next two years. The contract is due to finish by the end of summer 2018.

Mi-space operations director Martin Baker said: “Mi-space are thrilled to be assisting Newport City Homes with work on homes within the Somerton estate, to help improve external living spaces and reduce fuel poverty for their residents.

“Our teams are committed and working hard with NCH colleagues to ensure the successful delivery of this major investment project.”

The news comes a month after the housing association announced it would be investing nearly £8 million in the Pill area of Newport, one of the most deprived areas of Gwent.

Newport City Homes will be investing the money in Pill to fight anti-social behaviour and crime by removing underpasses and replacing alleyways with clear and open footpaths on sites they own, amongst others.