Welsh housing association Trivallis has named Wates Residential as its preferred development partner for the proposed £209m ($277m) regeneration of Penrhys in Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales.  

The appointment follows a year-long procurement process, during which bidders were assessed on experience, quality, values and proposed community benefits. 

Trivallis stated that the partnership with Wates Residential is not yet a construction contract, with formal signing anticipated in the coming weeks.  

In the interim, the association will continue working with Rhondda Cynon Taf Council to secure planning permission, which it aims to obtain by year-end. 

The Penrhys regeneration would provide new and replacement homes, alongside changes to the local environment and community infrastructure. 

The mixed-tenure development is expected to comprise between 800 and 900 homes over its full duration. Plans also include community facilities, a school, commercial space and public realm improvements. 

A recent procurement notice identified an initial phase of about 121 homes, while referring to the wider estate regeneration programme of up to 900 properties. 

Trivallis development, assets and sustainability executive director Louise Attwood said: “Appointing Wates Residential is a landmark moment for the regeneration of Penrhys. Following a thorough procurement process, we are delighted to have selected a partner that shares our ambition to create high-quality homes and lasting opportunities for local people.” 

Wates Residential is expected to support training, employment and skills initiatives for local people, as well as work with local businesses, suppliers and community organisations, Trivallis said. 

“This appointment gives us the confidence and expertise needed to turn our vision into reality. While there is still work to do before construction begins, we are now one step closer to delivering a development that will bring long term benefits to current and future generations,” Attwood added.