Waiting for a vital home extension (From Barry And District News)

Waiting for a vital home extension

A DISABLED Barry man's family have slammed the delay in the vital work being carried out at their home.

The Cotter family from Dylan Crescent, Barry, have run out of patience with the Vale of Glamorgan Council after waiting nearly six months for urgent work to be completed.

Stephen Cotter, who is disabled, needs the work to be completed so that he can have bedroom and bathroom facilities on the ground floor.

The family received a council-awarded grant for their home to be adapted. Stephen's wife, Paula, said: "Work began in March and we were assured that it would be completed by June, but we are living in a building site and it's now September.

"There are six of us living here and there just isn't enough room for us all. Part of our kitchen is being used for storage."

They have now turned to their Vale of Glamorgan MP, John Smith, in the hope he can help them to resolve the situation.

He said: "I visited the family and I was appalled with what they have had to put up with. The council approved the grant for disabled facilities and the work has begun but it seems like work has come to a virtual standstill." A Vale of Glamorgan spokesman said: "A grant was approved in March and work commenced the following month. A recipient has 12 months from the date of approval for the completion of the work.

"Grant applicants choose their own architect and contractor, and the contract for works is between the individual and their chosen contractor. "In this case, the applicant employed an architect to submit their application and supervise the work, and he is meeting the contractor on site this week to stress the need for progress. Work is progressing and the extension is up to roof level.

"The council is making every effort to assist in the completion of the job."