CAREY BAPTIST CHURCH, ABERKENFIG,

Demolition of a derelict church and construction of 14 new affordable homes Background arey Baptist church in Aberkenfig had been empty for over four years and was C in a poor state of repair. The building was owned by the Baptist Union of Great Britain (BUGB) and although it was not listed, it cost a significant amount to insure and maintain. The BUGB were working with a commercial agent to sell the site for an open market development. At the same time, Hafod Housing Association became aware of the site but was unaware it was owned by the BUGB.

Rationale for creating Affordable Housing Through contacts with Council, the Faith in Affordable Housing (FIAH) co-ordinator had already established that there was considerable housing need in the area for affordable homes for young adults. This site came to FIAH’s attention through a meeting with the South Baptist Union.

How the project took shape FIAH facilitated a meeting between the BUGB’s agent, Bridgend CBC and Hafod HA. Conversion of the church building into flats was not financially viable. The site also had the potential to incorporate a strip of land owned by the local authority, which would deliver more homes. Following consultation with the local community, it was agreed that Hafod HA would purchase the site and demolish the church in order to build 14 flats for affordable rent. It was also agreed that Bridgend CBC would sell the strip of land adjacent to the site to Hafod Housing.

Project Costs/ Financial Implications Total scheme cost: £1,468,090, Mixed funding: £851,967 Social Housing Grant from the Welsh Government, including £400,000 Smaller Properties Funding £616,123 Private Finance Land sold at market value: £135,000.

Keys to success Partnership working between Hafod HA, BUGB, Bridgend CBC and FIAH. Local contractor – Holbrook Homes “This development shows the benefits of working in partnership and it’s very rewarding to see a disused and derelict building being transformed into affordable housing in an area where there is high demand. Working with a locally based contractor is also helping to boost the local economy and support jobs”. Alan Morgan, Managing Director Hafod HA

“We’re delighted to see much needed affordable homes on this former church site. Churches across Wales can be part of the solution to housing need, and this development is a great example of what can be achieved by working together.” Sharon Lee, Director of Housing Justice Cymru

Biggest Challenges he biggest challenge was that the sale of the site was administered by a BUGB committee based in England but handled by a local commercial agent. This meant the T sale was commercially driven rather than by the needs of the local community. Hafod HA could only acquire the site by paying full market value. Thankfully, the commitment shown by Hafod, Bridgend CBC and Housing Justice to deliver the development meant the site was acquired.

Benefits 14 new affordable homes – 10 one bedroom flats and 4 two bedroom houses for affordable rent completed in January 2017. Homes were allocated via Bridgend Council’s Common Housing Register.

Who to contact Sharon Lee, Housing Justice [email protected]