THE Vale Council has said it is seeking “honest opinions and suggestions” for improvements to a Barry housing estate.

Residents in Gibbonsdown are invited to attend two sessions in which they can air their views.

The Vale Council is conducting a feasibility study with a view to applying to the Welsh Government for funding to improve the external environment of the Gibbonsdown estate and assist the authority in developing an environmental improvement strategy.

Bids will need to be made to the Welsh Government in March.

A Vale Council spokeswoman said: “This is the first step and we are keen to involve the residents from the outset to ensure that our bid reflects the people’s priorities.

“There will be open sessions in the Gibbonsdown area for residents to come along and give their honest opinions and suggestions for future improvements.”

She added: “The council will also be developing a Vale-wide Housing Environmental Strategy, which will inform future investment decisions following further tenant consultation as part of the Welsh Housing Quality Requirements estate improvements.”

Community campaigner Molly Conway said improved street lighting, the closure of some footpaths used as rat-runs and solar panelling to generate cost-saving energy to residents, could be beneficial.

Sessions will take place at Parkside Christian Church, Ramsey Road, from 5pm to 7 pm on Thursday, February 6, and at the Skomer Road Leisure Centre, from 2pm to 4pm, on Friday, February 7.