Housing Information Fair at Bontddu near Dolgellau

A Housing Information Fair in the Bontddu and Llanelltyd communities near Dolgellau is being held on 12 November with the aim of providing information on housing. The event is a pilot which hopefully if successful could be replicated in other rural communities where housing is a concern.

The event is a partnership between the Community Council and Gwynedd Rural Housing Enabler - Arfon Hughes, who’s research has found that the area is one of the worst in Gwynedd where there could be affordability problems after Abersoch and Mynytho.

“In order to substantiate this information, the Community Council and I decided to hold an information giving day which would give local people information regarding housing and related issues in order that they can make a decision on their future life in the area,” Arfon Hughes said

Other public sector partners which includes Gwynedd Council, Snowdonia National Park Authority, Cymdeithas Tai Clwyd and Cymdeithas Tai Eryri (housing associations) have agreed to attend to give information and to offer guidance on aspects of housing and planning.

The event hopes to attract the 44 residents who are on the housing waiting list and many more in the area to come forward. The event is being held between 3 – 7pm and should be convenient for all local residents and those who work in the area of Bontddu and Llanelltyd.

The community council was in favour of inviting local private sector agencies which include the following invitees who accepted namely solicitors Guthrie Jones and Jones, Estate Agents R G Jones, Sterling Independent Financial Advisors as well as local developers.

“There is also an invitation to any landowner, developer or empty home owner who would like to offer an opportunity for locals to be able to stay in the area. There will be an opportunity for all in housing need to register, and it is important that people do so, so that future planning of accommodation and services can be considered,” added Arfon.

Councillor Gethin Williams (Brithdir, Llanfachreth, Y Ganllwyd and Llanelltyd ward) noted: “I applaud the Community Council in their decision to hold an information day like this and I would like to see everyone who has an interest in obtaining a house in Bontddu and Llanelltyd to come along to meet officers and representatives of local companies to discuss their housing, planning and financial concerns in an informal way. I see this as an event which will go some way in the process of sustaining our communities, and services.”

Tony Williams Community Councillor in Bontddu added: “This is an ideal opportunity for young families to take advantage of free information on their door step for them to consider their future in the area where they grew up. I encourage everyone who wants to stay in the area and those who wish to return to come along.”