Homes helping people affected by Bedroom Tax, unveiled by Minister

Minister Lesley Griffiths has officially opened a £4.8 million housing development in central Cardiff helping people affected by the UK Government’s Bedroom Tax.

United Welsh’s Bailey’s Court development in Adamsdown, backed by £2.7 million funding from the Welsh Government, is made up of 49 one and two-bedroom apartments. The affordable housing scheme is enabling tenants to downsize, as well as providing long-term security and affordable rent.

Created on the site of the former Rumpole’s Pub, the scheme has also boosted the local economy, providing nine valuable apprentice opportunities to local people.

The Welsh Government is committed to supporting people who have been affected by the Bedroom Tax, investing £40 million in smaller homes over the past three years.

Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty, Lesley Griffiths, said:

“I am delighted to officially open Bailey’s Court, which is providing quality housing to local people. I am particularly pleased the Welsh Government has been able to support this development, as it is made up of smaller, affordable properties. It is vital we invest in properties such as these in order to protect people in Wales from the UK Government’s damaging Bedroom Tax.

“The scheme has been made possible through strong partnership working between United Welsh, Cardiff Council, Jehu Project Services and the Welsh Government. I am grateful to them – and to our partners across Wales – for helping us to increase the supply of good quality homes. With their valuable support we are well on course to deliver on our target to provide 10,000 additional affordable homes during this term of government.

“Investment in affordable homes not only creates quality housing for local people, but also boosts the construction industry and creates local jobs and training opportunities.

“It has been fantastic to hear the positive experiences of residents here at Bailey’s Court and I wish them much happiness in their new homes.”

The Minister met Viktorija Bekta, who lives in Bailey’s Court with her two-year-old daughter Paulina. Viktorija said:

“We were living in the private rented sector before but I wanted the security of living with a housing association so I was delighted when I was told I could have one of these flats.

“Paulina is able to have her own bedroom too which is really important and we are really happy to be here.”

Chairman of United Welsh Ian Gilbert said:

“We’re delighted to have provided these homes right in the heart of Cardiff’s city centre with easy access to public transport and local amenities. Bailey’s Court is ideal for people who need to downsize or be close to their place of work and we’re pleased to have created another sustainable community in a great location.”