Calls to Convert Derelict Properties Into Homes For Veterans

Calls have been made for Wrexham Council to buy a row of derelict properties in Ruabon and convert them into housing for ex-service personnel.

Mabon ap Gwynfor, the Plaid Cymru – The Party Of Wales Candidate for Clwyd South has called on Wrexham Council to issue a Compulsory Purchase Order for three empty homes in Ruabon, and work with veterans’ charities to re-house those in most need.

The houses themselves have been derelict for around 12 years and it is believed that previous attempts resolve the issues with the properties have failed.

Mabon ap Gwynfor said: “My late friend and Plaid Cymru colleague, Councillor Barrie Price, fought tirelessly on this issue before his untimely death four years ago. That is why I believe the council should now apply for a Compulsory Purchase Order. There are issues on the site that need tackling, but nothing that is insurmountable”.

Mabon ap Gwynfor added that he believed the council should carry on their good work with finding homes for veterans, by developing the site into houses for veterans: “I have taken the time to talk to some of the homeless people in and around Wrexham over the last few years. In doing so I have been surprised at the number of homeless people who are ex-servicemen, and are suffering from trauma of some kind or another. These people have been asked to put their lives on the line and when they are demobilised they are effectively forgotten by the Government.

“Wrexham Council is currently developing homes for veterans, agreeing in principle to gift land off Croesnewydd Road to support a project for veterans’ accommodation, and I think that purchasing the homes in Ruabon could be a great opportunity to develop homes for some of these vulnerable people in the middle of a welcoming and lively community.

“I posted this idea on Facebook originally and I have been blown away by the interest and support for the idea from the people of Wrexham and the area. Many tradespeople have said that they would be happy to donate their time and skills if the idea was accepted.”

One Facebook user, Paul Ju, said: “If these were able to be finished and ex military servicemen/women were going to benefit from them, as the owner of a local flooring company, we would be more than happy to help kit them out with some carpets. Feel free to give us a call at Cefn Carpets”

Another Facebook user, Daniel Smith, said: “If this goes ahead for ex-military I’d be more than happy to lend a hand on weekends sorting the place out”.

Mr ap Gwynfor added: “These homes have been lying idle and vandalised for 12 years. I want to see some action to bring them back into use – the will is there so I’m hoping the council will respond positively.”

A petition to support the call can be found here.