Signs of Powys County Council using the "Powys pound" have taken another battering with news that a contract to build a £3.5 million apartment block in Newtown has been awarded to a Port Talbot company.
The council has issued a statement saying the contract has been awarded to Jistcourt (South Wales) Ltd.
They will build the 26 one-bedroom flat development at the former Bowling Green site in Back Lane.
Previously, there has been criticism that Powys County Council does not use enough local businesses when awarding contracts, despite the county being home to numerous building and contractor businesses and associated businesses.
The statement said the company would use local contractors wherever possible.
"The company, who are committed to using local sub-contractors, is a major player in the building and civil engineering industry and have work with a number of councils and housing associations in Wales," said a council statement.
"The £3.5m development, which is being built on land adjacent to Newtown Bowling Club at Back Lane, will provide low-carbon accommodation available at an affordable rent."
Home grown timber will be used as part of its construction with timber being used for both the primary structure and external materials, including windows and doors, which supports the council’s Wood Encouragement Policy.
The Welsh Government has granted almost £2.2m in funding through its Innovative Housing Programme towards the development of the flats.
Cllr James Evans, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “I’m delighted that Jistcourt (South Wales) Ltd have been appointed as the lead contractor for this exciting and innovative social housing development project.
“This development, which will meet the needs of the local community, is just the first of many housing developments that we are planning across the county. It will also help meet our Vision 2025 – to build a minimum of 250 affordable homes across the county by 2023.
“We are looking forward to working with Jistcourt for the duration of this construction project.”
Rob Norman, Chairman of Jistcourt (South Wales) Ltd, said: “We are looking forward to working with Powys County Council on this exciting new development to provide 26 new affordable housing units in Newtown."
