Prefab communities (From Barry And District News)

Prefab communities

During the post-war period in Barry an estate of Prefabs was erected which was locally named the BUTTS, not to be confused with the present development, which exists today.

The prefabs were built under the then governments Temporary Housing Program 1945-1949 to resolve the housing shortage in post war Britain and to cater for the hundreds of demob service people and the rising birth rate of that period.

Former residents still live within walking distance of the old estate and a few I have spoken to recently say the miss their Prefabs and the friendships that were born there.

These prefab estates bore the community spirit, which is somewhat missing today and needs to be revived. The old prefabs may have been demolished but they are about to be reborn with the aid of modern computer technology but with the help of your old buts of paper!

Yes your family photos are needed along with council records of Building plans, Construction plans, photos even down to tattered rent books. So search your attics and biscuit tins to enable us to construct a Website of Barry's Heritage Housing History, which will be a permanent record for future generations and a wonderful nostalgic trip back in time for everyone who remembers THE PREFABS and MRS DODD'S SWEET SHOP.

Any photos and documents will be returned immediately once recorded. For further information contact Robert Wood on 01446 741207 or e-mail to robertwood8@hotmail.com.

Robert Wood By e-mail