A £2.3 million refurbishment of a Barry housing estate, which aims to transform flats and enhance building exteriors, is underway.

The 18-month programme will improve communal areas, upgrade fire protection to the Awbery House tower block, and develop play facilities.

Following tenant consultation, the scheme builds on improvements to the estate which had already been completed.

Vale council cabinet member for housing and building services, Cllr Andrew Parker said: “The major scheme builds on earlier improvements, which have included the provision of bin storage and recycling facilities, the upgrading of CCTV coverage and wide-ranging environmental improvements to gardens and parking facilities.

“The second phase of work includes repairs and improvements to the exterior of homes to ensure they achieve the Welsh Housing Quality Standard. Some remodelling will also take place to reduce incidents of anti-social behaviour. Properties will benefit from improved thermal insulation to meet the council’s wider aspirations to make our homes warmer and less costly to heat.”

A public meeting for residents took place at the Cherry Orchard pub last month.

Residents were informed many of the homes would receive new kitchens and bathrooms.

They met Vale MP Alun Cairns and Dyfan councillors Leighton Rowlands and Vincent Bailey to discuss the project and the impact it on those living in and around the estate.

Council officers Richard Stopgate, David Davids, and Chris Price answered technical questions and informed residents that the timetable for the work was to minimise disruption.

The interior of Awbrey House will be also be examined following specific complaints regarding the poor condition of the ceilings.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Cairns said: “While news of the refurbishment is widely welcomed, there were understandably some concerns regarding the short-term effects the project will have.”

Cllr Rowlands said it was “fantastic” for Buttrills residents that the long awaited refurbishment plans had been secured and that the benefits could already be seen.

Cllr Bailey added: “It's exciting to see these plans leaping off the paper and into reality, and it is clear that this scheme has the potential to transform the estate for the better."