How We’re Adding Social Value to Our Communities – Part Two

This blog highlights some of the impactful social value initiatives we've been a part of recently, showing how collaboration and community spirit can truly transform lives. Make sure to read Part One of this blog so you can keep up to date with the projects we’ve been working on.

What Once Stood: Preserving Local Memories 

Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the "What Once Stood" project aims to preserve the memories of Caewern House and Lower Dyffryn School, two iconic Port Talbot landmarks. 

Project Kick-Off & Leadership 

In March 2024, we launched the project with Rachel Taylor, a local former Dyffryn Comprehensive pupil and councillor, as Project Officer. Community launch events in Port Talbot and Neath saw strong support. 

The Caewern House Mystery 

A WWII-era rumour about a hidden RAF control room in Caewern House sparked an investigation with Bluerock Demolition. Although no room was found after uncovering layers of brick and stone, the ongoing demolition may reveal more.

Volunteer Power 

Volunteers, trained in oral history and archival research, are key to recording stories and preserving memories. Our partnerships with Volunteering Wales and Tempo Time Credits help support their work.

School Engagement 

In July, 400 Central Primary School students visited Margam Park to connect with local history, keeping Lower Dyffryn’s legacy alive. More educational activities are planned to involve local schools. 

Community Art Initiative 

Working with Tanio, we’re creating a mosaic from old school tiles. A 10-week pop-up at Aberavon Shopping Centre allowed the public to participate, with the finished installation set for display at the new site.

Steering Group & Community Involvement 

A steering group of local organisations and volunteers is guiding the project. David Rees MS, a former pupil, has also shown strong support and will contribute his memories at upcoming events.

Developments – Caewern House & The Former Lower Dyffryn School 

We’re currently awaiting planning consent before we begin this development. But in the meantime, we’re playing a key role as community liaisons for developments at Caewern House and Lower Dyffryn School. By collaborating with local councillors and residents, we’re addressing concerns and fostering trust in these projects. 

At Lower Dyffryn, in collaboration with Blake Morgan, Elfed Roberts from Pobl Group, Hale Constructions, Roberts Limbrick Architects, Tanio, Bluerock Demolition and our development team, we’ve implemented climate action initiatives. This work has been submitted as a case study for the Welsh Government’s Climate Action Wales initiative.

Resident Communications 

A local resident has created his own website to update the community on the development’s progression. We’ve supported him by regularly sharing updates with him and ensuring his website is SSL certified for security. 

Make sure to read Part Three of this blog to find out more our Social Value projects.