Work is well underway to fit brand new kitchens in many United Welsh properties across south Wales. Over the next few years the housing association will invest over £3 million improving the standard of kitchens in many of its properties.

The work is part of a rolling programme that will ensure all United Welsh housing meets the ‘Welsh Housing Quality Standard’ by 2012 and that tenants are provided with good quality homes. 

A stock condition survey has been conducted to assist the project. The survey has provided detailed information on United Welsh housing and the current condition of the kitchens within these homes. From this information a clear programme of work has been developed. 

Richard Mann, Director of Development for United Welsh believes the work will have a huge impact on the lives of many tenants.  

“As an organisation we are committed to providing our tenants with secure and comfortable accommodation. The kitchen contract is a clear example of this commitment and feedback from our customers has been excellent. We have over 3,500 homes so those properties most in need will receive the work first. 

“We are working towards the Welsh Housing Quality Standard, a target set by the Welsh Assembly Government. The successful implementation of the kitchen contract is a big step towards achieving that goal.  

“Over the next six years new kitchens will be fitted to properties right across south Wales. This is a huge challenge but we are confident we can deliver for our customers”. 

Willis Construction Ltd is the contractor working on behalf of United Welsh to install the kitchens. They began work in 2005 and have so far fitted over 250 new kitchens. 

In 2007 United Welsh will also begin a programme of work on bathrooms, heating systems, windows and doors. Again the stock condition survey will determine those properties most in need.