Redevelopment of an entire Welsh village with unique history is underway
It housed exiled Polish airmen and soldiers who remained in the UK following World War Two. There were around 100 exiled airmen, soldiers and sailors living there.
They established a Polish-speaking community on the former RAF Penrhos base. It had its own church, library, a large communal dining hall, shop and allotments as well as a care home for veterans.
But the condition of the 107 homes have deteriorated over the years and in 2022 plans were submitted to build more than 100 news homes - with the old properties demolished.
The first phase of redevelopment at Penrhos Polish Village will see the construction of 44 new homes. This scheme was made possible thanks to investment of a Welsh Government grant, following discussions between ClwydAlyn, Cyngor Gwynedd and Welsh Government.
Welsh social homes provider ClwydAlyn has confirmed that contracts have been signed with Williams Homes, Bala who will build 107-energy efficient homes.
Once complete, these new properties will be prioritised to current residents who already live at Penrhos Polish Village and people with low to medium care and support needs from the local community.
With scheduled pre-commencement works now complete, emphasis at the site is on the first phase of construction.
This development is separate, but closely connected, to plans by Cyngor Gwynedd and the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to develop a new nursing and residential home at Penrhos. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
ClwydAlyn said it has emphasised that preservation of the Polish and Welsh heritage at the site is of upmost importance. CADW has carried out an assessment of the site; making the decision that the Freedom Cross will be listed as a structure of historical and cultural interest, so that it can be protected for future generations.
The church and walled gardens will also be safeguarded and ClwydAlyn will work alongside residents and the local community to preserve and protect the Welsh and Polish history at Penrhos.
Councillor Paul Rowlinson, Gwynedd Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, said: "I'm pleased to welcome the significant progress being made as this Pen Llŷn housing development enters its next phase. Addressing the housing crisis remains a key priority for Cyngor Gwynedd—especially in areas like this, where a very large percentage of local people are priced out of the market.
"Through strong partnerships with housing associations such as ClwydAlyn, we are working together to deliver more high-quality, affordable homes for communities across the county."
Dylan Davies, Senior Development Project Manager at ClwydAlyn, said: 'As part of our commitment to delivering high-quality homes, we believe it's essential that all our partners play an active role in supporting our communities.
"This shared responsibility can take many forms and is guided by our ambition to end poverty in Wales. Whether that is by creating opportunities for employment, tackling loneliness, supporting residents with fuel costs or improving access to nutritious foods; all these efforts can help our communities to thrive.'
Owain Williams, Joint Managing Director, Williams Homes (Bala) said: 'Williams Homes is pleased to be working with ClwydAlyn and Welsh Government to deliver this exciting project. Developing new energy efficient homes to replace the existing outdated housing stock whilst being sensitive to the history of the former Polish
"Village and the current residents. The development will create over 20 jobs for local people and contribute to the local economy for the duration of the construction period.'
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