A HOUSING renovation boom is taking place in the Upper Amman Valley, with one refurbishment project completed and more than 20 other properties set to be done up.

Flats in Heol y Gelynen in Brynaman have been spruced up by Carmarthenshire Council and completed on time and under budget.

And, not to be outdone, Neath Port Talbot Council has announced further plans to carry out work on the exterior of 23 properties in Brynaman Road, which will be completed by April next year.

The work will vary from property to property and includes making improvements to roofs, windows, doors, guttering and rendering.

Council leader Derek Vaughan said: “Improving the social and economic prospects of residents in valley communities is part of the valleys strategy.

“The Upper Amman Valley renewal area is going from strength to strength and the group repair scheme is another step forward.

“Brynamman Road is part of the main thoroughfare to the Brecon Beacons National Park, so any works carried out there will have a significant visual impact, not just for residents but for visitors to the area,” he said.

The work on four two-bedroom flats at Heol y Gelynen was carried out as part of the Carmarthenshire Home Standards scheme.

Building Services Design team leader Roland Morris said: “The scheme was the refurbishment of four Cornish PRC flats.

“Work was completed on time and within budget,” he said.

Executive board member for housing and public protection Councillor Hugh Evans said: “This programme of improvement across Carmarthenshire will see every council home refurbished up to a standard which we have agreed with our tenants.”