New apartments for older people in Llanelli

A celebration has been held to mark the opening of 13 new apartments for older people in the heart of Llanelli.
New tenants were joined by neighbours, friends and guests for an afternoon tea at Waddle’s Court Sheltered Scheme on Friday - an opportunity to celebrate Carmarthenshire County Council’s £1.4million investment to transform a former care home into one-bedroom homes for older people, which was part funded by the Welsh Government.
The apartments, linked to the existing Waddle’s Court Sheltered Scheme, are self-contained, giving tenants their own freedom and security; whilst communal areas – including a lounge, library, TV and computer room – give them the opportunity to socialise with friends and neighbours if they wish.
Tenants prepared for the celebrations by baking cakes and making decorations, supported by Spice Time Credits volunteers, and took part in a short film produced by volunteer Robert Masterman.
The official opening was performed by council chair, Cllr Peter Hughes Griffiths.
Executive Board Member for Housing, Cllr Linda Evans, led proceedings, which included a choral showpiece from pupils of nearby Bigyn School and a guided tour.
“It is a pleasure to see the building so full of life,” said Cllr Evans. “There is a real warmth here that is echoed by new and old tenants who are enjoying the new surroundings.
“We are pleased, as a council, to be able to invest in schemes such as this which provide suitable homes for people to maintain their independence later in life.”
Tenant Nigel Evans has recently moved into one of the new apartments, but has lived at Waddle’s Court for some time. “You couldn’t wish for anything better, it’s a pleasure to be living here,” he said.
Neighbour Brian Williams, added: “I’ve been living at Waddle’s Court for six years – it’s close to Asda, the indoor market and the bus station so it’s very convenient. As for the new extension, it’s excellent – a great improvement. They’ve really catered for us, with a TV lounge, library, computer room and another large lounge."