Family home hopes for house

Jan 29 2008 by Phillip Nifield, South Wales Echo

A FORMER children’s home shut last summer is set to be turned back into a family home.

Cardiff council was originally due to sell 29 Abergele Road, Trowbridge, through an auction but the lack of social housing in the city prompted a rethink.

Now the authority is in negotiations with Cardiff Community Housing Association to take over the property.

The future of the home was raised by ward councillor Ralph Cook, who tabled a question to the full council asking what was being done to bring it into housing use.

Coun Cook said: “Why is it taking so long and can you reassure me that the current neglect of the premises will not be used to justify its eventual demolition and disposal for a capital receipt?”

He also asked for the cost of protecting the property.

Cardiff council, which has spent £2,784 on security shutters for doors and windows, said it was aware that groups of youths gathering around the premises were a problem. Graffiti and litter has also been removed.

Councillor Mark Stephens, the executive member for economic development and finance, said: “Cardiff Community Housing Association is currently preparing a proposal to return the property to use as a family accommodation under its ownership and management. Negotiations to establish a value for the property would need to be undertaken with the district valuer. However, if a registered social landlord is unwilling to purchase, or agreement cannot be reached on value, then the council will need to consider other options for the future of the property.”