Xx Llangattock Court Road NP25 3PX

Residents MANUAL & INFORMATION

Please take the time to read this manual, It will help you to get the best from your new home.

This manual is important, keep it in a safe place and know where it is.

Contents

CONTENTS...... 2

WELCOME...... 4 Emergencies...... 4

IMPORTANT CONTACTS...... 6

DEFECTS PROCEDURE...... 8

YOUR NEW HOME...... 10 Utilities (Water & Electric)...... 10 Entering Your Home...... 15 Security...... 15 Fire Safety and Equipment...... 16 Heating...... 17 Hot Water...... 19 Kitchen...... 19 Bathroom...... 20 Electrical Installations...... 20 Windows...... 22 Finishes and Colour Schedules...... 23 Care and Maintenance...... 24 Spares...... 29

YOUR HOME AND THE ENVIRONMENT...... 30 Recycling and Rubbish...... 30 Environmental Tips...... 32

SITE AND SURROUNDINGS...... 38 Development Environmental Features...... 38 Your Local Area...... 39

LINKS AND FURTHER REFERENCES...... 44 SITE SPECIFIC NOTES…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..45 NOTES...... 46

APPENDIX 1 - DEFECTS LIABILITY PERIOD......

APPENDIX 2 – COMMISIONING CERTIFICATES......

APPENDIX 3 – SECURITY/FIRE SAFETY......

APPENDIX 4 – OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE MANUALS......

APPENDIX 5 – KITCHEN LAYOUT AND SCHEDULE......

APPENDIX 6 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY......

APPENDIX 7 – CAR PARKING AND GARDEN ALLOCATION......

APPENDIX 8 – PUBLIC TRANSPORT......

APPENDIX 9 – NHBC INFORMATION......

APPENDIX 10 – HEALTH & SAFETY PACK......

Welcome Welcome to your new home, your surroundings have been designed and built with great care and attention to detail. This handbook has been produced to help you run your home and its equipment without problems. It also explains how to minimise the impact of your home on the environment and lots of useful information about your local area.

Emergencies

An emergency repair is: Total loss of electrical power Burst pipes and major plumbing repairs Loss of heating or hot water Fire (you should notify the 999 emergency services)

Make sure you know where the shut-off valves and switches are located (see Your New Home section.)

Turn off the electricity at the consumer unit in the entrance hall

Turn off the water under the kitchen sink

You may be charged for call-outs which are not emergencies or are problems caused by wilful damage.

All problems and defects should be reported initially to Customer Services on:

01495 745910 During normal office hours 9.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday 01495 325333 During out of hours emergencies only Please don’t call for routine repairs Or Email to [email protected]

In the event of any of the below, please use the relevant contact details:

If your electricity fails: Call Scottish & Southern Energy on 0800 052 0400

Burst water main: Call Welsh Water on 0800 052 0130

Gas: Call National Gas Service Emergency Line 0800 111 999

Important Contacts

Water Supplier Welsh Water Dwr Cymru Water Customer Services PO Box 3118, Cardiff CF30 0BY Tel: 0800 0520145 www.dwrcymru.com

Electricity Supplier Scottish & Southern Energy, Inveralmond House, 200 Dunkeld Road, Perth PH1 3AQ Tel: 0345 0262658 www.sse.co.uk

Gas Supplier Eon Westwood Way, Westwood Business Park Coventry, CV4 8LG Tel: 0345 0599905 www.eonenergy.com

British Telecom (BT) BT Correspondence Centre, Providence Row, Durham, DH98 1BT Tel: 0800 443311 www.bt.com

Police Station Glendower Street, NP25 3DG Open Monday to Friday 9-5pm only www.gwent.police.uk

Fire Station Monmouth Fire Station Rockfield Road, NP25 5BA www.southwales-fire.gov.uk

Emergency Medical Centres Nevill Hall Hospital Brecon Road, Abergavenny, NP7 7EG

Tel: 01865 741166 www.oxfordradcliffe.nhs.uk

Citizens Advice Bureau County Citizens Advice 23 Whitecross Street, Monmouth NP25 3BY Open Tues-Thurs 10-2pm www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Town Council Monmouth Town Council Shire Hall, Agincourt Square NP25 3DY [email protected]

County Council Monmouthshire Council County Hall, The Rhadyr, Usk, NP15 1GA [email protected]

Melin Melin Homes Ty’r Efail, Lower Mill Field, Pontypool, Torfaen NP4 0XJ 01495 745910 Emergencies 01495 325333 (out of hours only) [email protected]

Development Builder Redcliffe Homes Limited Holly House, 4 High Street, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6AH Tel: 01454 316633 www.redcliffehomes.co.uk

Defects Procedure

Melin Homes through Redcliffe Homes are responsible for rectifying any defects that occur in your home during the first twelve months after completion. Should you experience any problems, these should be reported directly to Melin Homes. After twelve months Melin are responsible for rectifying any defects.

At the end of the twelve month defects period your home will be inspected by Melin Homes and Redcliffe Homes. All defects will be noted and an appointment will be arranged with you in order for the contractor to rectify these defects.

Please note it is your responsibility to report defects or maintenance issues as soon as they arise. Although your home has already been inspected, we know that unforeseen defects can occur. In this instance you should ring Melin’s Customer Services who will ensure that swift action is taken to inspect and remedy them.

Please do not contact the contractor direct. If you have any queries or problems please contact Melin’s Customer Services Department on 01495 745910.

Before you ring to report a defect, please check through this manual so that you can be specific about the problem. Full information on what constitutes a defect can be found in Appendix 1. We will notify Redcliffe Homes, who will arrange an inspection and any necessary works to be carried out with you.

Please note we do reserve the right to charge for missed appointments or reporting a defect where it is clearly vandalism or misuse.

Some small cracks may appear as the plaster dries out. This is perfectly normal and is not a defect. We will be unable to ask the maintenance team to rectify any damage caused by any of the occupiers or vandalism. All problems and defects should be reported initially to Melin Customer Services on: 01495 745910 During normal office hours 9.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday 01495 325333 During out of hours emergencies only Please don’t call for routine repairs Or Email to [email protected]

Defects Inspection

Approximately twelve months after completion of the building works, your home will be jointly inspected by Melin Homes and their contractor’s representatives to identify any defects that may be outstanding and require rectification.

We need to make this visit because during the defects period the original contractor is obliged to rectify any faults to their work free of charge. It is, therefore, essential that we visit in order to make a full record of any defects.

Your co-operation at this stage in providing access by appointment will be appreciated. After the contractor has rectified all defects the guarantee period will be over.

Please see Appendix 1 for further information on the Defects Liability Period.

Running In

Most building materials will have absorbed moisture during construction. This moisture is in the fabric of the building and will usually dry out gradually during the first twelve months of occupation. As the building dries out the wood and plaster in it will shrink, possibly causing small cracks to appear. These are not structurally important and can be rectified during the normal process of redecoration. Any abnormally large cracks will be made good by the builder.

You should avoid redecorating until the twelve months defects inspections have taken place as general drying out and shrinkage cracks could appear within this period. If you have redecorated within the twelve months defect period and cracks appear which need to be filled by the builder, it will be your responsibility to redecorate again. If you have not redecorated, the builder will fill the cracks and make good the redecoration.

Note: You should not do any wallpapering within the twelve months defects period.

Minimising cracking By taking the following steps you should be able to reduce occurrences of cracking due to shrinkage a) Try to keep a reasonably even temperature by using heating sparingly to allow your house to warm up gradually. b) Encourage ventilation by leaving windows and internal doors open a few inches whenever you can (including storage doors).

Your New Home

This section explains the key features of your new home including some key environmental features and energy/water saving tips.

Utilities (Water, Electric, Gas)

Your home has water and electric connections. It is important to familiarise yourself with where the shut-off valves are for each of these services, in case of an emergency. The Health & Safety Information Pack in Appendix 11, page 21 highlights the service entry points.

Water Gas Electricity

Colour of Underground Blue Yellow Black Service

Location of Stop Under kitchen External meter In Consumer Unit Valve/ sink box in the entrance Main Switch Also in riser hall cupboard

Location of In footpath to External meter In riser cupboard Meter front of your box property

Setting up utility accounts

When setting up your utility accounts (electricity and water) you may be asked to supply detailed information of your new meter.

All the information you require to set up these accounts is detailed on the next page.

Please remember, to avoid any confusion, it is advised not to change your suppliers until you have received your first bill.

Development name: Llangattock Court Developer Handover Date: 30/11/16 Building plot number:

Postal address:

Electric Supplier: SSE Contact number: Electric Meter Point Authorisation Number (MPAN) Serial number: Meter reading at handover – Date 30/11/16

Gas Eon

Water Supplier: Welsh Water Contact number: Serial number: Meter reading at handover – Date 30/11/16

Copies of Electric Certificates can be found at Appendix 2.

Electricity

The electricity cable enters your home through your electricity meter located in a cabinet by the front door, and from there to a consumer unit. The meter and cable are the property of the electricity company and must not be tampered with in any way.

The electrical consumer unit is located in the entrance hallway. The trip switches are all marked indicating the circuit that they operate.

Your consumer control unit contains your:-  Main Switch  2 x Residual Current Devices (RCD)  Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCB’s)

Main Switch

When this is in the ‘Off’ position, all of the circuits are then isolated (DEAD) from the electrical supply. Residual Current Devices (RCD’s) Due to the 17th edition IEE Regulations there are 2 no. RCD’s installed in the Consumer Unit which operate various circuits to the left of the RCD units. The circuits are split in such a way that if a fault occurs then only one of the RCD’s will fail to operate thus leaving you with light and power on the other RCD. When the RCD’s are in the ‘Off’ position all circuits are then isolated (DEAD) from the electrical supply.

Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCB’s) The MCB’s are labelled in the inside of the consumer unit. The MCB is very sensitive and will switch off if there is a fault in any of your own appliances. If this happens, disconnect all appliances, switch on MCB and replace appliances one at a time until the MCB switches off again, disconnect this appliance and then switch on again. Get professional advice on the offending appliance. You must not attempt any work to the consumer unit. This would first require the disconnection of power by your electricity supplier. Breaking of the seals within the meter cupboard will render you liable to prosecution and to the disconnection of your supply.

Circuit Breakers When these are in the ‘Off’ position only the individual circuits connected to the current breakers are then isolated (DEAD) from the electrical supply.

Operation of Consumer Unit

To make circuits ‘Live’ To make circuits ‘Dead’ a) Switch ‘ON’ main switch a) Switch ‘OFF’ main switch b) Switch ‘ON’ RCD b) Switch ‘OFF’ RCD c) Switch ‘ON’ circuit breakers c) Switch ‘OFF’ circuit breaker

If power circuits fail, it could be for the following reasons:  Overload of the circuit, which will cause the associated circuit to trip ‘OFF’  Connection of a faulty appliance to the power circuit which will cause the RCD to trip ‘OFF’ and may cause the associated circuit breaker to trip ‘OFF’

To reinstate circuit, unplug the faulty appliance and switch ‘ON’ RCD and circuit breaker as necessary.

The lighting can fail if a bulb blows:  Check with the aid of a torch whether the circuit breaker is in the ‘OFF’ position  Switch circuit breaker to ‘ON’ position  Identify faulty bulb  Switch ‘OFF’ circuit breaker

 Replace bulb  Switch circuit breaker to ‘ON’ position” If you discover that a bulb has gone, please note that it is your responsibility to replace this.

General Plugs and Amps Advice There are electric socket outlets in all rooms, except the bathroom and toilet areas. All electrical appliances you intend to use must be fitted with a three pin square 13-amp plug with cartridge fuse of the correct rating.

The following are the most common fuse ratings for most appliances

 Electric Kettle 13 amp fuse  Washing Machine with Heater 13 amp fuse  Electric Iron 5 amp fuse  Vacuum Cleaner 3 amp fuse  Television Set 5 amp fuse  Radio 3 amp fuse  Bedside Light 3 amp fuse

Please check the fuse ratings for any of your appliances with your supplier

REMEMBER THAT ELECTRICITY IS DANGEROUS AND CAN KILL, SO:  DO NOT attempt to do any work on an electric circuit  ALWAYS ensure that appliances are fitted with the correct fuse as recommended by the manufacturer  ALWAYS unplug any appliance before working on it  ALWAYS follow the manufacturer’s instructions for wiring appliances  DO NOT use a portable electric fire in the bathroom (the heating installed should be sufficient for you not to need portable heaters any way)  NEVER use an electric hair dryer or any other portable electric appliance in the bathroom except electric shavers supplied from a special shaver unit  DO NOT attempt to repair, alter or extend the electrical installation  Keep a torch handy by the control box for emergencies

Earth bond clamps with green/yellow cables are connected to equipment at various positions, for example, incoming services, sink top, bathroom etc. These are for your safety and must not be interfered with.

Electricity Supplier Scottish & Southern Energy, Inveralmond House, 200 Dunkeld Road, Perth PH1 3AQ Tel: 0345 0262658 www.sse.co.uk

Water

Stopcock Your water supply passes through a stopcock located under the kitchen sink. Stopcocks are provided to turn off the water supply. In the event of a major leak on any water pipe the entry point stopcock should be turned off immediately.

Water Meter A water meter is located in the footpath to the front of your property.

Water charges are based upon the amount of water used and the water company will read the meter at intervals.

Minor leaks such as dripping taps can usually be dealt with without isolating the whole water system. Isolation valves are provided for the basin and bath and these are located under the basin and behind the bath panel.

Please note that if a leak has been left unreported, we reserve the right to charge for any making good of the property.

Tips to remember:  If you intend to leave your home for more than a day or two in winter, you should leave the heating set on a low level to avoid freezing.  If there is a risk that pipes are frozen do not run the hot water taps as this will empty the hot water cylinder, which could then collapse.  Always have buckets and bowls available to catch any water and, if in the bathroom, to prevent it from going to the floor below.  Do not allow taps to drip as dripping taps may stain the bath or basin and could result in frozen waste pipes in winter. There are things you can do to lessen the damage, for example by placing a bowl under the tap and emptying this regularly until the tap has been repaired.

Water Supplier Welsh Water Dwr Cymru Water Customer Services PO Box 3118, Cardiff CF30 0BY Tel: 0800 0520145 www.dwrcymru.com

Gas

Gas Supplier Eon Westwood Way, Westwood Business Park Coventry, CV4 8LG Tel: 0345 0599905 www.eonenergy.com

Entering your home

Your entrance door is a solid timber door with a security chain and a fob operated 3 point locking system fitted with a spy hole for identifying your visitor before opening your door to them. There is also an audio only door entry system for visitors. Tou can operate both these doors using your electronic fob key.

We advise that you do not open the front door until you are satisfied that you either know who is there, or they have shown you satisfactory identification.

Security

We advise that you:  Do not allow strangers into your home without asking for proof of identity and until you are satisfied with their identity.  When you leave your home – even to visit a neighbour for a short time – make sure your front door and all windows are secure.  Never leave valuables where they can be seen by looking through a window  Hide small valuable items like jewellery  Have valuable items photographed and security marked with an ultra violet light reactive pen so that your goods can be traced if stolen

Please refer to Appendix 3 for the Home Office guide to crime reduction.

Security Lighting

The communal car park is fitted with low energy external lights that are movement sensitive. During the hours of dusk/darkness these will turn on if they sense movement and will illuminate the entrance to your property.

Cycle Security Your site is also equipped with a permanent cycle stand. It is recommended that you secure your bicycle to this stand with an appropriate security chain and lock.

Insurance

Melin Homes does not insure the contents of your home or your personal possessions. We strongly advise that you arrange a comprehensive policy covering your contents as soon as you move in and make sure the level of cover is adequate.

Fire Safety & Equipment

What to do in case of fire:  Leave the property avoiding the fire, close the doors behind you and make your way to the nearest fire exit (remember to take the front door key and access fob with you)  Do not panic  Do not stop to collect personal belongings  Notify the 999 emergency services

Be prepared if a real fire should occur:

Think now about possible escape routes from your home.

See Appendix 4 for further information on fire safety.

Smoke detector

These are located on the ceiling in the hallway and landing. They are electrically mains wired with battery backup in case of mains failure.

Smoke detectors should be regularly tested. Do this by pressing the test button. The detectors are sensitive to dust and you should periodically remove any dust with the nozzle of your vacuum cleaner.

Take care to prevent false alarms from ‘burnt toast’ and ‘fry-ups’ by keeping doors closed and operating the kitchen fan.

Do not under any circumstances disconnect the units – they are there for your safety – Melin Homes should be advised of any faults with this unit as a matter of priority.

Heating

Your home is currently heated by hot water radiators in all rooms, by a gas boiler with mains pressure hot water cylinder. The level of heat is controlled by an electronic thermostat which is located on the wall in the hallway.

For operation details please refer to the operation manual in Appendix 5.

Radiators Each radiator is fed from the boiler.

On each radiator there is a thermostatic valve (except in the room where the thermostat is situated). Adjusting this valve will adjust the heat output from the radiator it is connected too, giving you more control over the heating.

Programming your heating The time of day that your heating and hot water comes on is set using the heating and hot water programmer located in the kitchen.

By setting the programmer to heat your house and water you can dramatically reduce the cost of your energy consumption.

You can find further guidance on increasing your energy efficiency in Appendix 7.

Ventilation Your home is equipped with an MVHR (mechanical ventilation heat recovery) system. This provides a constant supply and even temperature of fresh air, this system is noiseless but constantly working to ensure optimum comfort

Heating fault finding

Before calling Melin Homes please refer to the troubleshooting section of your operation manual in Appendix 5.

Radiator bleeding You may also find that periodically your radiators may need bleeding. This is where air becomes trapped in the system and it becomes noticeable as the bottom of the radiator is warm, but the top remains cold. This is because the air trapped in the radiator is stopping the hot water from filling the entire unit.

How to bleed a radiator It is a good idea NOT to bleed radiators with the central heating pump ON – if you do, there is always a risk that air might be drawn into the system making the problem worse. 1. With warm water in the radiator, switch off the central heating system at the programmer in the kitchen. 2. Fit a bleed key onto the bleed valve/screw which is located on the side of the radiator. 3. Loosely wrap a piece of old cloth around the key to catch any expelled water. 4. Open the bleed valve by turning the bleed key a ½ turn anti-clockwise – hissing of air being expelled will normally be heard. 5. When water starts to dribble out of the valve, close the valve by turning the key a ½ turn clockwise. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN.

By ensuring that your radiators are operating efficiently you can reduce the amount of energy you consume in heating your home.

Hot water

If your hot water is not working, before calling Melin Homes please refer to the troubleshooting section of your operation manual in Appendix 5.

Kitchen

Your kitchen is equipped with kitchen units, laminated worktops and ceramic tiled splashbacks. Spaces have been provided for a cooker, fridge and a washing machine or a combined washer dryer.

13amp socket outlets have been provided for your electrical appliances and switches for controlling the washing machine and cookers are located above the work surface.

If you require a dishwasher, we would recommend you seek advice from Soha housing and you should ensure that all appliances are fitted by a suitably qualified tradesperson e.g. electrician, plumber, gas fitter.

Hot and cold water supply and drainage pipework have also been installed in or adjacent to the washing machine space.

A copy of your kitchen layout and schedule of units is included in Appendix 6.

Extractor Fan Your kitchen is fitted with an extractor fan. There is an isolator switch for this fan located on the back wall, however it is advised that this appliance is left on in order to extract cooking smells and moisture from the kitchen when required.

Kitchen taps

Your kitchen is fitted with a Bristan Java tap with a chrome plated finish. The tap is fitted with flow restrictors that limit the flow of water and act as a water saving feature.

Maintenance: If the fitting begins to drip:  Turn off the water supply  Tighten connections  If problem persists contact Customer Services

Aftercare Instructions: Your fitting has a high quality finish and should be treated with care to preserve the visible surfaces. All surface finishes will wear if not cleaned correctly, the only safe way to clean your mixer is to wipe with a soft damp cloth. Stains can be removed using washing up liquid. All bath cleaning powders and liquids will damage the surface of your fitting even the non-scratch cleaners.

Bathroom

Your bathroom door is fitted with a lever handle and a lock which, in the case of an emergency, can be opened from the outside using the ‘coin slot’.

Extractor Fan

Your bathroom is fitted with an extractor fan with a condensation control. There is an isolator switch for this fan located outside the bathroom, however it is advised that this appliance is left on in order to extract moisture from the bathroom when required.

Bathroom taps / Shower mixer

The taps in your bathroom are fitted with flow restrictors that limit the flow of water and act as a water saving feature.

A Mira Minilite thermostatic shower is fitted over the bath with an attached hose.

You should maintain and care for these fittings in the same way as detailed in the Kitchen section.

Shaver socket A shaver socket is provided. Check your shaver voltage and plug into the side with either 115V or 230V written on it.

Electrical Installations

Telephone connection

Telephone sockets are pre-wired ready for the installation of a telephone system in the following rooms: 1 socket in the living room 2 sockets in Bedroom 2 / home office area

If you require a telephone service, you must apply direct to a telecom provider to become a subscriber. They will also need to connect up the individual sockets.

TV Aerial

A TV aerial point is located in the living room and master bedroom connected to a communal satellite system.

Lighting

Your home has been fitted with low energy light fixings, Crompton LED 3W (cool white) & 20W 3U CFL BC lamps. Replacement bulbs can be purchased from any good DIY retailer.

Pendant Lighting – bulb replacement:

TURN OFF THE ELECTRICITY SUPPLY AND LET THE BULB COOL DOWN FOR APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES TO AVOID INJURY.

1. To replace the bulb, first turn off the electricity. 2. Hold the casing above the bulb with one hand and gently push the bulb up and turn clockwise to remove it from the lugs. 3. To insert the new bulb, hold the casing in one hand and gently push the bulb up and turn anti clockwise until engaged. 4. Turn the electricity back on. 5. Dispose of the old bulb responsibly.

NEVER TOUCH AN ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE OR SOCKET WITH WET HANDS

Please note there is an electrical spur located at the top of the stairs for use in the installation of a stair lift if required in the future.

Windows

The windows installed to your new home are timber double glazed faced with aluminum externally.

Locking is by a number of cams (espagnolettes) located around the perimeter of the window casement. When the window is shut, with the handle in the closed position, the cams are engaged in ‘keeps’ fitted around the window frame.

To unlock the windows: Lift the handle and push the window open. On first floor windows, the window will only open as far as the width restrictor allows.

To lock the windows: Grip the handle, pull the window in and turn the handle down.

Cleaning your windows For cleaning purposes only, the first floor windows can be ‘disengaged’ using the Easy Clean Hinge mechanism. By pressing the lug you can slide the casement along the fitting making it possible to clean the external surface of the window from the safety of your room.

The window needs to be fully opened to do this and should be carried out using the strictest care possible.

As soon as the cleaning is completed, the restrictor should be re-engaged.

Maintenance Clean the frames and glass every 3 months using mild, non-scouring cleaning agents and a soft cloth

DO NOT use any tools with sharp edges i.e. knife, metal scrapers, steel wool or scouring pads etc.

Use a lubricating spray such as PTFE on moving parts; vacuum the rebate to remove dust and dirt to avoid the drainage holes becoming blocked.

Please see Appendix 5 for further maintenance information.

Finishes and colour schedules

Ceramic wall tiles

Bathroom / Cloaks: Porcelanosa Jersey Mix 20X31 P31499831 www.porcelanosa.com [email protected] Tel 0117 959 7151

Flooring

N/A

Paint Finishes

Walls Crown Soft Cream Ceilings Crown White Woodwork Dulux White Satin wood

Kitchen units

Sigma 3 www.sigma3.co.uk

Napoli Gloss Range Doors: Ivory Napoli Gloss Worktop: Sonoma Oak W396 Handle: H706

Care and maintenance

Condensation prevention

There is always some moisture in the air, even if you cannot see it. If the air gets colder, it cannot hold all the moisture and tiny drops of water appear. This is condensation. You notice it when you see your breath on a cold day, or when the mirror mists over when you have a bath.

Condensation is water produced when warm and moist air, e.g. steam, comes into contact with a cooler surface i.e. glass. It causes dampness that can damage clothes, bedding and carpets. It can encourage mould growth and most importantly it can damage your health.

Look for it in corners, on or near windows, in or behind wardrobes and cupboards. It often forms on north facing walls. Because of the amount of water used in the construction of a new building, newly built properties are particularly likely to suffer from condensation.

Another sign of the building drying out that may appear is the formation of white deposits on inside or outside walls. This is caused by salts in the materials forming and leaching out, and is known as efflorescence. On external walls this will eventually disappear. On internal walls it can be cleared by wiping or brushing with a dry brush.

Causes of Condensation

Warm, moist air is created in many ways. The most common causes in the home are:

Boiling kettles or cooking Drying wet clothes indoors Baths, showers and dishwashing Drying clothes in a tumble dryer with no Water spillages external vent pipe

Reduction of Condensation

To deal with condensation you should take the following steps:

1) Produce less moisture When cooking, reduce the amount of moisture in the kitchen by covering pans and do not leave kettles boiling.

Open the windows, close the door and ensure the extractor fan is on.

The use of heaters fueled by LPG (Calor Gas) should NOT be used in the home as they produce moisture and increase the risk of fire, explosion and carbon monoxide poisoning.

2) Ventilate to remove the moisture

Some ventilation is needed to get rid of moisture, which is produced all the time mostly just be peoples breath.

Open windows whenever possible.

You need much more ventilation in the kitchen during cooking, so you should turn the extractor fan on.

3) When possible, hang washing outdoors to dry.

In general - Close the bathroom door when this room is in use. This stops moisture reaching other rooms, especially the bedrooms that are often colder and more likely to suffer from condensation.

Cupboards and wardrobes can be ventilated simply by leaving the doors ajar to help circulate the air. Avoid putting too many things in them as this can stop the air circulation. Leave a space between the back of the wardrobe and walls and if possible avoid putting wardrobes and large pieces of furniture against external walls.

Please remember that a large quantity of water is used in the construction of a new building and it will take several months to dry out fully. It is most important to ventilate the property well, and it is better to leave the heating on all the time on a low setting, rather than let the air get cold and then heat it up (which increases condensation and uses up more power).

Cleaning advice

Health & Safety Advice Some of the cleaning methods described involve the use of chemicals, which may be hazardous if not used in the correct manner. It is important that any safety warnings issued by the manufacturers of these cleaning products should be read carefully and should be strictly adhered to. In general the following precautions should be taken:  When using chemicals, protective clothing such as gloves, goggles, boots and overalls should be worn.  Adequate ventilation is required in confined spaces when using chemicals.  When using flammable liquids, do not smoke cigarettes and extinguish naked flames and other sources of ignition.

 When diluting acids, always add acid to water and not water to acid.  Any clothing that is contaminated with chemicals should be disposed of safely.  When using chemicals, care must be taken not to damage, contaminate or stain any adjoining material.  Run-off material containing any chemicals should be carefully controlled to ensure that its disposal does not harm other people, animals, or any part of the environment.  It is particularly important with all cleaning methods that a test should be carried out on a small, inconspicuous area to determine the effect of the chemicals before treating a larger area.

Glazed Ceramic Wall Tiles The routine cleaning of glazed ceramic tiles should be carried out after the removal of any loose dirt or grit by wiping off with a dry cloth, followed by washing with warm water to which a neutral, low sulphate detergent has been added. The regular use of detergents and other cleaning agents, which are excessively more acidic or alkaline, can cause irreversible damage to the tile surface; acidity being less damaging than alkalinity. Many degreasing agents that contain wax, sodium silicate or other additives leave a sticky deposit and thus retain dirt. These should be avoided.

After a further rinse with clean water to remove any traces of the detergent solution, the tiles should be given a final wipe down and polished with a clean, dry, soft cloth. ABRASIVE POWDERS, WHICH MAY SCRATCH THE GLAZE, MUST NOT BE USED.

Every three months inspect all tiled areas for signs of damage to tiles and any signs of tiles becoming detached from floors or walls. Over a period of time the grout lines between the tiles may become discoloured. The grout can easily be refreshed with an appropriate cleaning product, used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Basins and Sinks Basins and sinks should only be cleaned with recommended products to avoid damaging their surfaces (e.g. Cif/Ajax cream or similar cleaners). Do not use scouring or gritty powders. Bleach should not be mixed with lavatory cleaners and should not be left to stand in stainless steel sinks. Use a non-abrasive cleaner instead.

Carpets If you fit carpets, the appearance and durability of the carpet is governed by the care and attention it receives during its lifetime. Please remember that the wearing indoors of rubber soled shoes and trainers can cause extra wear, similarly stilettos and metal tipped heels can also cause wear. Maintenance or cleaning should comprise frequent, light cleaning with a vacuum cleaner or carpet sweeper, together with a thorough clean using a vacuum cleaner once or twice a week.

Lighting Clean light fittings only with a soft dry cloth. Do not use any chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or anything damp.

Doors Routine maintenance for cleaning of finger marks etc should be carried out using a damp, soft cloth. Abrasive household cleaning materials must not be used for cleaning painted doors.

Vinyl Flooring No attempt should be made to apply polish to these surfaces. Vinyl floor surfaces should be maintained by wet or dry suction cleaning or by sweeping. Vinyl flooring should never be allowed to remain wet.

Paint Coatings Soap or detergent solutions are usually adequate for normally soiled surfaces. Strong solutions which may attack the coating or leave a sticky residue are not to be used. Following the application of any solution, final rinsing with clean water before the solution has dried is essential. After rinsing, surfaces should be dried off and time allowed for absorbed or trapped moisture to dry out.

Marks made by oil, grease or wax are not easily removed with soap or detergent. This type of soiling is usually around edges of doors or on skirting boards. This can usually be removed by wiping with a clean cloth and white spirit followed by a wash with cleaning solution and finally rinsing with clean water.

Redecorating

Redecorating and wallpapering can be carried out after 12 months when the maintenance inspections have been carried out and we have made good any defects. Only very large cracks, which may have formed during the last 12 months, will be made good by the builder. Smaller cracks in plaster or paintwork can be made good with filler prior to decorating.

No alterations to your home should be carried out without first consulting Melin Homes. Failure to obtain written permission may cancel out guarantees relating to your home.

Remember to use low VOC paints and products if redecorating. Timber sourced from certified sources is better for the environment.

Wall and ceiling fittings advice

Walls All external walls to your property are built with an inner skin that has a dry-lined finish.

Internal Partitions Internal partitions are stud with dry-line finish. The ceiling is stud, plasterboard and dry- lined.

Small pictures and other small items may be hung on picture hooks, either single or double nail types. Heavy pictures and mirrors should not be hung on picture hooks – instead use a plasterboard toggle type wall plug that should go through the plasterboard into the cavity. These special wall plugs are available from hardware and DIY shops.

If fixing through tiles, keep the end of the wall plug level with the plaster face and not the face of the tile.

Ceilings It is possible to fix items to the ceiling but you should take care not to suspend heavy objects from it.

Ceilings are constructed using plasterboard fixed to the underside of either floor joists (ground floor of houses) or roof trusses (top floor of houses). In any case these are normally spaced 450/600mm apart and can be located by tapping across the ceiling until you hear a more solid sound. Once located you can drill through the plasterboard into the wood and use a woodscrew in the normal way.

Be careful when nailing or drilling into walls or ceilings to avoid contact with any electric cables or pipes which may lie beneath the surface. A useful ‘rule of thumb’ to always bear in mind is that electric cables normally run vertically or horizontally from a socket or switch so avoid fixing in these positions.

Please be aware that this is a generalisation and is not always the case, so care must always be exercised.

Blockages

Kitchen Waste Pipes If a blockage occurs and the sink is full of water, try to remove the blockage by pushing a flexible rod down the plughole or by using a suction cup plunger to force water up and down the waste pipe. The risk of blockages can be reduced if you remember to put fat

which solidifies when cold into an empty tin or milk carton rather than down the sink or drain. Baths and Basins Blockages here are normally caused by a build up of hair and soap and become noticeable when the bath or basin starts to drain away more slowly. You can try to remove the obstruction by using a piece of bent wire to fish carefully down the plughole to bring up the material which is causing the problem. This must be done gently to avoid damaging the waste pipe.

WC’s Never flush disposable nappies, wet wipes or similar items down the toilet as these can cause a serious blockage for which YOU will be responsible.

If a serious blockage persists contact Customer Services.

Spares

When purchasing products for your home, remember to think of the environment and consider energy efficient electrical items, timber from sustainable sources and responsibly produced household chemicals.

Your Home and the Environment

This section gives you information on how to minimise the impact of your home on the environment.

Recycling and Rubbish

Your home has been supplied with dedicated recycling bins located in one of the kitchen cabinets. For details of how to use these effectively, and what the provisions are for recycling collections and disposing of oversize and hazardous waste, please see Appendix 12 and follow this link: http://www.recycling-guide.org.uk/

Monmouthshire Council provides a weekly kerbside recycling collection to all households in Monmouthshire using red and purple bags. They also collect food waste weekly using blue food bins. The communal bin store is located in the communal car park.

There is a brown garden waste bag (pay to use) service. It costs £14 per year.

Household rubbish is collected fortnightly. A maximum of 2 bags of standard 80l size will be collected. Please take your bags to the dedicated bin storage area.

For more information please visit Monmouthshire Council website. www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/recycling-and-waste/household-rubbish-collections

Paper Recycling - the red bag - this is collected weekly

Recycling- the purple bag - this is collected weekly

Food waste - the blue food waste bin - this is collected weekly

Household rubbish bag - this is collected fortnightly

Brown garden waste - this is collected weekly (pay to use)

Alternatively you can contact your local council on: 01633 644644

YOUR RUBBISH AND RECYCLING IS COLLECTED ON A TUESDAY

Bulky items

Home makers Community Recycling collect large items such as furniture, beds and white goods on behalf of Monmouthshire County Council.

Homemakers aim is to reuse and recycle as much of these items as possible.

To have these items collected there is a charge of £12 for up to 3 items and an increased charge for additional items. These prices can be found on the Homemakers website www.hmrecycling.co.uk

To arrange a collection please contact Homemakers on 01873 857618.

There are four sites in Monmouthshire, open from 8am to 6pm, 7 days a week (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day)

Your nearest Household recycling center is:

Mitchel Troy Off the B4293, Mitchel Troy, Monmouth NP25 4HX

A useful website for further information on composting can be found at www.recyclenow.com/home-composting/making-compost or www.getcomposting.com or by calling 0844 571 4444.

Love Food Hate Waste With 7.2 million tonnes of food and drink wasted in the UK every year, Love Food Haste Waste (LFHA) would like to help householders save up to £50 on their shopping bills each month. For more information with recipe ideas, tips on planning and using what’s in the cupboards visit their website at www.england.lovefoodhatewaste.com

WRAP WRAP is a not-for-profit company that works to help businesses, local authorities, communities and individuals reap the benefits of reducing waste, developing sustainable products and using resources in an efficient way. With information, news and help on areas such as recycling symbols, composing, why recycle and what to recycle visit their website at www.wrap.org.uk or ring 0808 100 2040

Environmental Tips

THE ENERGY SAVING TRUST good practice guidance (www.est.org.uk/myhome)

Saving energy

 If possible, use segmented or divided pans to cook more than one vegetable on the same burner or ring.  Do not overfill kettles; boil just the amount you need and be sure to cover the element in electric kettles.  Turn off kettles as soon as they have boiled. Do not allow them to steam away unattended.  Let warm food cool before you put it in a refrigerator.  Defrost fridges and freezers regularly. When ice builds up you waste energy.  Keep your freezers at least three quarters full.  Do not open the fridge or freezer door more often than you need to, try and get everything you need out at one time.  De-scale kettles regularly, they will boil quicker and it costs less. Follow rinsing instructions on the packet carefully.  Set the controls to provide heating and hot water only when you want it, and at the temperatures you want. The lower the setting of your thermostat, the lower your fuel bill. If the control is set to switch off the heating just before you go out or go to bed, the system will still be warm when you do. If you have a bath after the hot water heating has switched off, there will be no hot water to lose heat and waste money overnight.  Curtains / clothing should not cover heaters as this helps to waste heat by directing heat outside or preventing it from circulating.  Thick, lined curtains drawn at night help keep heat in and cold out.  Avoid putting furniture etc. in front of storage heaters/radiators as this will severely restrict their operation and its ability to heat the room that it serves. To arrange a FREE home survey for advice on how to save money in your Home call freephone on 0800 954 9689 or email [email protected]

For more information and advice on energy efficiency see Appendix 7.

Saving water

You can  Turn off the tap while cleaning your teeth, shaving or washing your face. You can waste up to 9 litres a minute by just letting the water pour down the sink.  Taking a short shower rather than a bath could save you up to 400 litres a week. If you do have baths, just half fill them.

 Only use washing machines and dishwashers when you can put on a full load. It wastes both water and energy to run only a half full machine. Alternatively, look to using a shorter/ cooler cycle.  Fix any dripping tap. You can waste 90 litres a week which will cost a lot more than what might just be the price of a new washer.  Keep cool water in the fridge so that you do not need to run water down the sink to have a cold drink.  Think before throwing used water down the drain e.g. water in a pan after cooking, as this could be reused for watering plants around the house when cooled down, or in the garden.

Environmental features of your home

Your home has been built with great attention to detail. All the timber used in its construction has come from certified sources, ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources.

Your home has also been equipped with the following energy / water saving devices:  Flow restrictors on your taps and shower hose to limit the amount of water that potentially can be wasted from a running tap etc.  The lighting in your home only accepts low energy bulbs reducing your energy consumption.

Sustainable DIY and purchasing

When making changes to your home, ensure you use the most environmentally friendly materials and products, for example:

 Energy efficient electrical appliances and light fittings – these will save you money over less efficient types.  Timber products from sustainable sources.

The EU Energy Label

When purchasing electrical appliances you will find that all products display an EU Energy Label. This tells you about the energy efficiency of the product and helps you make an informed decision about your purchase. An important part of the energy label is the energy efficiency rating scale which provides a simple index of the products efficiency from ‘A’ (the most efficient) to ‘G’ (the least efficient).

Energy efficient products are less harmful to the environment and save you money because they are cheaper to run. We can all reduce our impact on the environment by limiting our use of CFC’s. CFC’s are man-made gases, which have been used for many years in fridges and freezers. These gases can damage the ozone layer which prevents the harmful ultraviolet rays from reaching the earth’s surface.

Energy labeling information can be found by visiting: www.direct.gov.uk/energylabel

You can buy fridges and freezers which do not contain harmful CFC gases. This means you can help the environment and save money at the same time.

For more information on energy efficient products visit www.energy-labels.org.uk For more information on sustainable DIY, visit www.greenchoices.org/index.php/sustainable-products

Also, think about sustainable purchasing elsewhere…

 Organically grown food, grown locally from places such as farmers markets or organic box schemes  Natural cleaning products, reducing the use of bleach and detergents  REDUCE> REUSE> RECYCLE

For more information on sustainable purchasing, visit www.sustainablestuff.co.uk/SustainableStrategy.html

For information on all aspects of ‘Greener’ living, including sustainable DIY, holidays, food & drink and energy visit www.greenchoices.org

What we can do to lower our Co2 emissions http://actonco2.direct.gov.uk/actonco2

Local & Organic Produce

Background Most farming relies heavily on artificial chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Around 350 pesticides are permitted, and it's estimated that 4.5 billion litres of them are used annually. While there are Government rules about accepted levels of pesticide residues in our food, there can be concerns about their long-term effect. Agrochemicals and artificial fertilizers

can harm the environment too. Organic agriculture is carried out to a set of legally defined standards. Producers then pay to have their produce monitored and certified by one of several organic organisations, of which the Bristol-based Soil Association is by far the largest in the UK. Organic farming strictly limits the use of artificial chemical fertilizers or pesticides – only seven pesticides are approved for organic use and the Soil Association only allows four of these. Antibiotics for animals are kept to an absolute minimum. Instead it emphasises farming methods such as crop rotation to keep the soil healthy and natural pest-control systems. Genetically modified crops are forbidden. Organic bodies also demand more space for animals and higher welfare standards. However, some organic certification schemes are stricter than others. The Soil Associations are the most stringent, particularly for poultry and pigs. Soil Association-certified chickens are kept in smaller flocks, and have more space indoors and out than others. Some other organic poultry standards are closer to free-range. A campaigning as well as a certifying body, the Soil Association is helping UK schools switch to organic produce and encouraging visits to organic farms as part of its education programme. Its trademark is currently the best known organic symbol in the UK, although a new EU-wide organic symbol will be introduced in July 2010.

Environmental Benefits Although most people buy organic because they believe it's healthier, organic farming is less harmful to the environment. Balance and biodiversity are encouraged. Without herbicides and pesticides wildlife can flourish, and there are no potentially polluting chemicals.

Because it does not rely on agrochemicals and artificial fertilizers, which use fossil fuel in their production, organic farming has a lower carbon footprint than conventional agriculture, typically using 27 per cent less energy, according to Government findings.

Benefits of Local Produce Local food is not just about 'food miles'. When the Soil Association talks about local food, we don't just mean food that has travelled a shorter distance to the shop. We mean food that is produced and distributed in ways that contribute positively to local communities. We are interested in the whole localised food system, not just in the food products. In an ideal world we believe communities should be able to buy as much locally produced food as possible. The global food and farming systems that currently govern the way we buy food are not based on this ideal. We believe that locally organised food systems can help local communities to thrive by: • providing jobs and supporting business networks • being sensitive and caring for the environment • creating positive social connections • providing healthy fresh seasonal food

A localised food system considers everything connected to the production of food. It starts with the growing and rearing of food. It includes its processing, distribution and trading. Everyone involved – from producers to suppliers to customers - should benefit from the

system. It should respect the people, the animals, and the environment. It should also be self-sustaining. A localised food system should ideally have the following characteristics:

Proximity - food that comes from as close as possible and reduces energy use in its production. Fresh, seasonal food is rich in taste and nutritional

Provenance – the origin of the product or the ingredients are clearly and fully traceable

Local control – ownership and control of all aspects of the system are retained by and benefit the people in the area. This means money re-circulates within the community, helping secure jobs and businesses.

Respect – food from a localised self-sustaining food and farming system respects people, animals and the environment. This means food that: • Is ethically or collaboratively traded between producers, processors, retailers, and consumers, strengthening the local economy. • Does not exploit employees in the food sector in terms of pay and conditions. • Is socially inclusive and accessible to all, both in terms of geographic access and affordability. • Does not contain harmful biological or chemical contaminants that negatively affect soil, plant, animal or human health. • Encourages learning about where food comes from, how it is produced and how to cook and enjoy it. • Strengthens links between the people that produce food and the people who eat it. Mutually supportive connections help to create a vibrant community, with a strong sense of identity and culture. • Have high animal welfare standards in production, transport and slaughter. • Is environmentally beneficial – careful management of water, soil and biodiversity. • Comes from low-input farming and growing systems, such as organic and biodynamic. • Reduced packaging and shorter food miles, meaning less pollution and waste.

It is not always possible to check everything, but when shopping for local food try to look for: • Food produced or processed in the local or neighbouring areas and that is, or has ingredients that are, fully traceable • Food that comes from locally owned operations and supports local businesses and jobs • Food produced in a way that supports wildlife and does not damage the countryside • Food that is produced by people that are skilled and passionate about what they do

• Food that has not travelled too far, is not over packaged, and is fresh and seasonal

However, some food can't be produced locally - trade is vital. Very rarely can a local region be completely self-sufficient. Trade, if carried out in a fair way, also has many positive impacts, including education and improved quality of life. Trade should be in keeping with the principles underlying a localised food system. Many products cannot be produced locally or have a very short UK season. These should come from other UK and European regions, sourced from like-minded socially responsible producers and co-ops actively promoting their own local, direct and co-operative marketing. For products from outside Europe, UK businesses should seek to work with organic and Fair Trade producers.

However, food that isn't certified as organic can also be produced to equally high standards with taste as a priority. For example, top quality grass-fed and free-range beef might not be certified as organic because of the expense and inconvenience involved in ensuring that all the pasture on which the herd grazes has received organic certification. When it comes to taste and quality, organic food isn't necessarily the be all and end all. What Organic certification does is to give a guarantee that food has been responsibly produced with consideration for the environment, the highest animal welfare standards and careful crop management. Buying locally produced food with a minimum of packaging, through a box scheme or farmers' market should give you the reassurance that you are supporting more- sustainable agriculture.

More information on local produce, farmers markets, organic vegetable boxes and other local suppliers can be found on; www.bigbarn.co.uk or call 01234 871005. Local organisations offering weekly organic vegetable boxes include Riverford (www.riverford.co.uk) or call 01803 762059 and Local’s Best (www.localsbest.co.uk) and Local Harvest (www.localharvest.org).

Alternatively, if you want to go for the most local food possible you could consider growing you own, either in your garden or an allotment.

Site and Surroundings

This section tells you more about your property and the communal features on the development, plus information about your local area including local amenities and public transport.

Car Parking

Please do not carry out car oil changes on the surfaced or paved areas as oil can cause damage and Melin reserve the right to recharge for damage caused. Do not pour any oil or fuel products down the drains.

The car parking allocated to your home is indicated in Appendix 7

There is 1 space allocated per flat. There are 4 visitor spaces, 2 of which are marked disabled.

Development Environmental Features

SUDS

Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are used to reduce the amount of water which enters sewerage systems after heavy rain events.

 Parts of the site are laid with permeable block paving. This allows water to seep through the surface to the material beneath which helps regulate the discharge of rain water into the sewerage system.

These features help to minimise the impact of the development on the environment. For more information on SUDS visit www.environment-agency.gov.uk

Wildlife

Provision has been made on the development for a permanent roosting habitat for bats, insects and nesting birds.

Bat Boxes provided in the wildlife area

Please be aware that bats are a protected species and you should not interfere with or move any of the bat boxes you see on the development.

For further information visit: www.bats.org.uk

Your Local Area

Monmouth is a traditional county town in Monmouthshire, . It is situated where the River Monnow meets the River Wye, within 2 miles of the border with England. The town is 36 miles northeast of Cardiff and 127 miles west of London.

Perhaps best known as the birthplace of Henry V, Monmouth boasts a whole host of historical sites, people and buildings from the to the Town Hall. It has a medieval 13th Century bridge over the river Monnow, unique in Britain as it is the only preserved bridge of its design remaining.

For more information visit www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/things-to-do

Some useful web links www.visitmonmouthshire.com www.monmouth.org.uk www.welcometomonmouth.co.uk www.nationalrail.co.uk www.sustrans.org.uk – information on getting around using public transport www.upmystreet.com

Your nearest

Local Shops Co op 10 Oldway Centre, Monnow Street, NP25 3PS www.co-operative.co.uk

Supermarkets Waitrose 110-114 Monnow Street, NP25 3PS www.waitrose.co.uk

Lidl Redbrook Road, NP25 3LX www.lidl.co.uk

Sainsburys The Maltings, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire HR9 7YB www.sainsburys.co.uk

Post Office Monmouth Post Office 27 Monnow Street, NP25 3EF 01600 772135

Medical Chippenham Surgery Monnow Street, NP25 3EQ www.chippenhamsurgery.co.uk 01600 713811

Dixton Surgery Monmouth, NP25 3PL www.dixtonsurgery.co.uk 01600 712152

Pharmacy Boots 60 Monnow Street, NP25 3EN www.boots.co.uk 01600 713119

Dentist Monmouth Dental Practice 16 St James Square, NP25 3DN www.monmouthdentist.co.uk 01600 714236

Happy Teeth Dentist 29 Monnow Street, NP25 3EF www.happyteethdentistry.co.uk

01600 772060

Trefynwy Dental Practice 10 St James Street, NP25 3DL www.walesnhs.uk 01600 772060

Library Momouth Library/Community Hub Rolls Hall, NP25 3BY www.monmouthshire.gov.uk 01600 775215

Banks Barclays Bank 17-18 Agincourt Square, NP25 3DY www.barclays.co.uk

Lloyds Bank 18 Monnow Street, NP25 3XH www.lloydsbank.com

HSBC Bank 18 Monnow Street, NP25 3XH www.hsbc.com

Schools Primary Primary School Rockfield Road, NP25 5BA www.overmonnow.monmouthshire.sch.uk 01600 713458

Kymin View Primary School Wyeshaw Road, NP25 3JR www.kyminview.ik.org 01600 714146

Osbaston Church in Wales School Osbaston Road, NP25 3AX www.osbastonciwschool.cymru 01600 775070

Schools Secondary Monmouth Comprehensive Old Dixton Road, NP25 3YZ

www.monmouthcomprehensive.org.uk 01600 775177

Places of Worship Monmouth Baptist Church 3 Monk Street, NP25 3LR

St Mary’s Priory Church Monk Street, NP25 3NX

St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church St Mary’s Street, NP25 3DB

Pubs Old Nags Head Granville Street, NP25 3DR 01600 712220

The Kings Head 8 Agincourt Square, NP25 3DY 01600 710500

Transport

Petrol Stations Shell Cinderford Street, NP25 5EZ

Buses Visit www.monmouthshire.gov.uk for information about bus services in the area

Rail The nearest train station to Monmouth is

INFORMATION FOR THESE SERVICES CAN BE FOUND IN APPENDIX 8 Green Transport

Sustrans is a charity that works with communities, policy-makers and partner organisations, so that people can choose a healthier, cleaner and cheaper journey, also enjoying better, safer spaces to live in.

They provide information and advice to people to complete their journeys on foot, on two wheels and by public transport.

Sustrans 2 Cathedral Square College Green Bristol BS1 5DD 0117 926 8893 [email protected] www.sustrans.org.uk

Information and ideas on green transport can be found by visiting the following websites:

www.acttravelwise.org or www.act-uk.com

Information on car sharing can be found at www.liftshare.com

Sports and Leisure

Sports Centers Monmouth Leisure Centre Old Dixton Road, NP25 3DP www.monmouthshire.gov.uk/leisure/monmouth-leisurecentre 01600 775135

Green Space/Parks Tintern Old Station www.tinternvillage.co.uk Veddw House Garden Wyndcliffe Court Sculpture Gardens

Organisations www.visitmonmouthshire.com

Walks Monmouth Heritage Blue Plaque Trail [email protected]

Days out Nelson Garden, Monmouth Raglan Castle Abbey Mill

Links and further references

This section indexes all websites referenced in this manual

 www.melinhomes.co.uk  www.dulux.co.uk  www.wrap.org.uk  www.energy-labels.org.uk  www.sustainablestuff.co.uk/SustainableStrategy.html  www.environment-agency.gov.uk  www.bats.org.uk  www.ukvillages.com  www.nationalrail.co.uk  www.sustrans.org.uk  www.upmystreet.com  www.thetrainline.com  www.networkrail.co.uk  www.recyclenow.com/home-composting/making-compost  www.better.org.uk/leisure

This guide is available in various formats. Should you require a large print version or a copy on CD please contact Redcliffe Homes on 01454 316 633 or write to the following address: Redcliffe Homes Holly House High Street Chipping Sodbury Bristol BS37 6AH

The information contained in this Guide is believed to be accurate but Redcliffe Homes does not accept any liability for any error omission statement or inaccuracy and shall not be liable for any losses or damage that may result from the use of the Guide.

Site Specific Notes

Parking, 1 space per flat, 4 visitors 2 of which will be disabled. Spaces will be allocated but not marked. No private gardens, communal landscaped areas, 2 bike shelters, bin store, no external drying areas. No floor finishes provided at all except in communal areas. No PV on site. No specialist kit, just Heatrae Sadia Advance heat recovery unit located in cupboard. Door entry system, audio only, trades facility, no keys all fob access. Gate at entrance to car park not electronic. Communal TV/satellite system, no alarm facility. Gas central heating and water filled radiators, Boiler is Ideal Logic Code Combi, SSVs 1st floor located under sinks adjacent to stop tap. No CO detectors. Windows composite timber internal with aluminium outer facing. No space for tumble dryers, expectation is that residents have combined washer/condensing tumble dryer. Oven and hob provided. Bat box on gable wall of plot 19.

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