CHRISTMAS has come early for these council housing tenants who have moved into modern, new build homes in Llandybie.

The new £1.1million housing development in Maespiode is the first to be delivered under Carmarthenshire County Council’s plans to support the delivery of more than 2,000 new homes across the county.

Tenants who were on the housing register have now moved in to the eight two-bed semi-detached houses fitted with new modern kitchens and bathrooms as well as the latest technology to reduce energy use and carbon footprint and help lower energy bills for tenants.

A tree has also been planted in every garden to off-set carbon emissions.

All these actions align with the council’s commitment to tackle climate change - highlighted through the Prosiect Zero Sir Gâr campaign which raises awareness on what the council is doing to become a net zero carbon authority by 2030.

Tenant Dawn Davies said: “It is very high spec; nothing beats this to be honest. I moved from a flat, so it’s a big difference, especially to have a nice garden.”

The houses were delivered on behalf of the council by local building contractors TRJ Ltd and is part of the council’s ambitious plan to deliver more affordable homes.

Cabinet Member for Housing Cllr Linda Evans said:

“The council’s plans to support the delivery of more than 2,000 homes will see the biggest increase in council housing stock in Carmarthenshire since the 1970s.

“Providing more affordable homes is a key priority and this new development is the first of many which will be delivered over the next year for the benefit of local people on the housing register.”

The council is also building new houses in Dylan, Llanelli; Glanmor Terrace, Burry Port; Garreglwyd, Pembrey and Gwynfryn in Ammanford which are due to be completed in the next 12 to 18 months.

Council Leader Emlyn Dole said: “We are leading the way in Carmarthenshire by delivering affordable, high quality, energy efficient and much-needed homes for our residents.

“This huge investment in housing will also help to boost the local economy – creating new jobs, training opportunities and apprenticeships in the construction industry and helping wider-scale regeneration in our communities.”