THE conversion of two rundown buildings in Torfaen into affordable homes has been branded a “huge success story”.

Trosnant House and Ty Quaker, in Pontypool, have been turned into 10 affordable flats by Melin Homes.

Torfaen councillor Alan Jones, executive member for business, tourism, leisure and culture, said of the Trosnant Street development: “I would like to thank the Welsh Government for providing funding under their Vibrant and Viable Places programme and to Melin Homes for taking these projects forward.

“I would also like to thank CJ Construction who have done a fantastic job in the renovation of these buildings.

“The Pontypool Investment Fund is a huge success story. It has delivered much needed, affordable housing and the associated footfall is providing a boost to town centre traders. It has also helped a huge amount of young people into employment and training.”

Ty Quaker, previously home to Pontypool Brass Band, will feature four new homes, while Trosnant House, which has been derelict for a number of years, will offer six homes.

The work has been completed as part of the Pontypool Investment Fund. The fund has seen £4.5 million invested into Pontypool since 2016 and has helped to create 22 affordable homes.

An associated recruitment and training scheme has also helped more than 65 people into employment or training in the construction sector.

Melin chief executive Paula Kennedy said: “These new homes bring us great pleasure to open because they are more than just bricks and mortar.

“These are very much part of regenerating two buildings in disrepair and also Pontypool Town Centre.

“This is very much a partnership with the Welsh Government and Torfaen council to bring these much-needed homes and we hope this is the first of many.”

Rebecca Evans, Welsh Government minister for housing and regeneration, said: “We are committed to working in partnership to create more affordable housing and to support town centre regeneration; these fantastic developments bringing buildings back to life demonstrate how together we can make a difference.”