Safe as houses

9:02am Wednesday 16th July 2008

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MORE than 250 new homes are being constructed in Llanfoist despite uncertainty within the UK building industry, according to builders Barratt Homes.

Britain's second-largest house builder denied rumours that the construction and completion of 98 homes on the Plas Mynydd development on Gypsy Lane had been frozen. And although Barratt were unable to confirm the latest situation regarding 159 homes on the redeveloped former Cooper's factory site, the Free Press understands this project is also going ahead as planned.

A Barratt spokesperson said: "Barratt's Plas Mynydd development in Llanfoist remains open with building work continuing as normal."

Llanfoist residents said they had seen no activity on the building site for some time - and feared Barratt were pulling the plug. Yet despite a UK-wide deterioration in the market and the recent decision by Barratt to axe 1,000 jobs, the firm has said it is committed to completing the Gypsy Lane development.

Johnsey Estates' director Kevin Johnsey, who owns Cooper's, added: "Barratt have contractual obligations with Johnsey Estates to purchase our site at Llanfoist. Johnsey Estates are currently completing site preparation work and thereafter will be completing with Barratt."

The development of the Coopers' site will include 159 homes, of that 20 per cent affordable housing, plus a Homebase DIY store and garden centre with car parking spaces.

The Plas Mynydd development on Gypsy Lane is adjacent to the new 210 place Llanfoist primary school. 18 houses have already been completed and 13 are occupied by families with another two being built which have already been reserved.

The total of 98 includes 19 affordable units which have already been built and are occupied.

The Barratt spokesperson added: "The development offers a selection of three, four and five-bedroom homes and prices range from £199,995 to £334,995. Buyer incentives include Barratt's Real Deal or part exchange options to assist with home buyers in finding their dream home."