A contract to build Powys County Council’s first affordable housing development for social rent in over 40 years has been awarded to a Welsh building company.

Port Talbot-based Jistcourt has been appointed as lead contractor to build a three-storey building containing 26 one-bedroomed flats in Newtown.

The company, who are committed to using local sub-contractors, is a major player in the building and civil engineering industry and have worked with a number of councils and housing associations in Wales.

The £3.5m development, which is being built on land adjacent to Newtown Bowling Club at Back Lane, will provide low-carbon accommodation available at an affordable rent.

Home grown timber will be used as part of its construction with timber being used for both the primary structure and external materials, including windows and doors, which supports the council’s Wood Encouragement Policy.

The Welsh Government has granted almost £2.2m in funding through its Innovative Housing Programme towards the development of the flats.

Cllr James Evans, Cabinet Member for Housing, said: “I’m delighted that Jistcourt (South Wales) Ltd have been appointed as the lead contractor for this exciting and innovative social housing development project.

“This development, which will meet the needs of the local community, is just the first of many housing developments that we are planning across the county.  It will also help meet our Vision 2025 – to build a minimum of 250 affordable homes across the county by 2023.

“We are looking forward to working with Jistcourt for the duration of this construction project.”

Rob Norman, Chairman of Jistcourt, said: “We are looking forward to working with Powys County Council on this exciting new development to provide 26 new affordable housing units in Newtown.”