An ambitious affordable housing project in Cardiff has reached completion after more than a decade of development. The Mill scheme, located on the site of the former Arjo Wiggins paper mill in Ely, has delivered 800 homes, half of which are designated for affordable rent, including 75 for social housing. The project, valued at £150 million and partially funded by Principality Commercial and Welsh Government, has been a collaboration between various organizations including Tirion Homes, Lovell, and Cadwyn Housing Association.
Tirion Homes, a community benefit society, spearheaded the development to provide affordable housing without the need for grant funding. The completion of the final phase of the project marks a significant milestone in transforming the abandoned paper mill site into a vibrant and sustainable community. The affordable homes, managed by Cadwyn Housing Association, have already been rented out to new tenants, contributing to the ongoing regeneration of Cardiff.
Infrastructure work alongside the housing project includes the creation of new roads, a viaduct, and improvements to flood defences in the area. Additionally, commercial units managed by Tirion Homes are available for rent, with discussions underway with interested parties. The site features a riverside park with green spaces, a children’s play area, and cycle paths to enhance the community’s quality of life.
Welsh Government has provided significant loan investment towards the Mill development, emphasising the demand for high-quality housing in the region. The successful collaboration between Tirion, Cadwyn, Principality Building Society, and Welsh Government has led to the creation of a thriving community with homes that meet the needs of residents for generations to come.
David Ward, CEO of Tirion Homes, expressed pride in achieving this milestone, highlighting the organisation’s commitment to providing affordable housing choices. Lovell, the construction partner, ensured attention to detail and care in building each home to meet the future residents’ needs. The completion of the Mill scheme reflects a shared vision among partners to create sustainable communities and contribute to a brighter future.
The exemplary progress of the Mill scheme sets a benchmark for future affordable housing projects, showcasing the positive impact of collaborative efforts in addressing housing needs and fostering community development in Cardiff.