The future of Penrhys

Your questions answered

Q1: Can you tell us what is happening to Penrhys?

A: Penrhys is a brilliant place to live. The people are friendly, and there’s a real sense of community here. But some of the homes are getting old and need a lot of money spending on them.

That’s why we’re planning to build a brand-new estate with around 1,000 new homes over the next ten years.

We’ll be doing it in phases – bit by bit – focusing on different parts of Penrhys as we go. Right now, we only know where the first phase will be. As soon as we’ve planned the rest, we’ll let everyone know.

Q2: So, what’s happening in the first phase of the project?

A: Phase 1a will be at the top of the estate, near where the old Soaring Supersaurus building used to be. We’ve chosen that part because it’s easier to build on, there are fewer homes, and it keeps construction traffic away from the school. We’re already speaking with everyone affected. Over the next 12 months, people living in this part of Penrhys will move out so we can make way for the new homes. They’ll move into another home while the work is done, and once a suitable new home is ready, they’ll be able to move in permanently.

Q3: Will people have to move more than once during the project?

A: If you’re in Phase 1a, yes, you’ll need to move twice. We know that’s not ideal, but we can’t start building until those homes are empty. The good news is, your temporary home will be a proper house, just like the one you have now. No one will be placed in a hotel or hostel. We’ll work with you to find somewhere that suits you and your family, in an area you’re happy with. For later phases, we’re hoping people can move straight into their new homes, but we can’t guarantee that just yet.

For tenants, we’ll pay removal costs, even if they move twice, and they’ll also get a one-off home-loss payment of £8000.

Q4: Can people stay in Penrhys, and will they get one of the new homes?

A: Yes, absolutely. It’s really flexible. If you want to stay in Penrhys during the building work, you can, but we might need to move you into a different home here for a while. If you’d prefer to move off site, that’s fine too. Some people might even choose to leave for a bit and come back later once the new homes are ready. Whatever you decide, we’ll work with you to make it happen.

And if you do want one of the new homes in Penrhys, we’ll work with you to make that happen and make sure it suits you and your family’s needs.

Q5: It doesn’t look like much is happening, so is this really going ahead?

A: We’re working really hard to make it happen. It’s a big project to regenerate the whole estate and give everyone a new home, so it takes time. But we’ve already made more progress than in previous attempts, and things are moving forward.

Right now, we’re getting everything ready to apply for planning permission for Phase 1a. That means gathering a lot of information, which is why it might seem a bit quiet. At the same time, we’re working on the bigger picture – applying for outline planning for the whole development and finding the right building company to do the work.

If all goes to plan, we’re hoping to start building in summer 2026.

Q6: What can you tell us about the new estate?

A: It’s a big project that’ll take around ten years to complete, but when it’s done, there’ll be about 1,000 brand-new homes here in Penrhys. Over half of them will be sold privately – that’s how we’re able to fund the whole development. Some will be available through shared ownership, which means people can buy part of a home and rent the rest, making it more affordable. And of course, there’ll be enough social homes for current tenants too.

All the homes will be mixed together, so it won’t be one area for private buyers and another for social housing. Everyone will live side by side, creating one strong, connected community.

We’re also planning green spaces, play areas for children, community facilities, and shops and business units. The Council’s building a brand-new primary school to replace the old one, and the church will stay too, possibly in a new building if that’s what they’d like.

With modern homes, great views, and a real mix of people, we believe Penrhys can become one of the best places to live in the Valleys.

Q7: What will the new social homes be like?

A: The new homes for social housing tenants are being built using designs from something called the Welsh Pattern Book. That means they’ve been carefully planned by architects, housing experts, and tenants to make sure they’re great to live in. They’ll be modern, better for the environment, and cheaper to heat thanks to new heating systems.

We’re also using materials made in Wales, which helps support local jobs and cuts down on transport, so it’s better for the planet too.

Each home will come with its own shed for storage and at least one parking space right outside, so they’re practical as well as comfortable.

Q8: Is it true Penrhys will be used for illegal immigrants?

A: No, this is not true. Illegal immigrants are not entitled to social housing.

Most of the new homes will be sold to private homeowners and shared owners. The other homes will be used for social housing and will go to Penrhys people first.

Q9: What’s happening with the estate that’s here now?

A: Some of the homes here will still be around for a while, up to ten years in some cases, so we’re not just leaving them. We’re continuing with repairs and updates to make sure they’re safe and comfortable to live in. That includes things like painting buildings, fixing fences, and keeping the estate looking good.

Even while building work is going on, we want Penrhys to be a place people can enjoy and be proud of. Right now, for example, we’re doing some work on the Cage and adding new goal posts and sports hoops so people can start using it again.

Eventually, all the current homes will be replaced with brand-new ones, homes that are warmer, more practical, and much easier to heat.

Q10: How can people stay up to date with what’s happening in Penrhys?

A: We’re doing our best to keep everyone in the loop. The easiest way is by email, so if we don’t have yours, or it’s changed, give us a call on 03000 030 888 or update it yourself on My Trivallis.