Young people take first steps in construction on Cyngor Gwynedd housing development sites

Two young people from Gwynedd have taken their first steps in the construction industry, thanks to a partnership between Adra, through Academi Adra, OBR Construction and Cyngor Gwynedd.

Rhun Pleming and Ben Saunders have started 16-week work placements with OBR Construction on two of the Council’s Tŷ Gwynedd housing development sites – Dôl Afon Goch in Llanberis, and a development in Coed Mawr, Bangor.

Academi Adra was established by the housing association Adra in 2021 to offer opportunities to young people to develop skills and experience in the construction industry. Gwaith Gwynedd, Cyngor Gwynedd’s service that supports residents to find work, works closely with Academi Adra to connect individuals to the programme.

The aim of the Council’s Tŷ Gwynedd scheme is to deliver affordable, adaptable, sustainable, and energy-efficient homes for local people through the development of affordable housing.

There are currently four Tŷ Gwynedd sites being developed in Bangor, Llanberis, Morfa Nefyn, and Llanystumdwy, with more in the pipeline. The aim is to build 90 homes through the scheme by 2028-29. It’s a key part of the broader Housing Action Plan by Cyngor Gwynedd to help local people live and thrive within their own communities.

Ben Saunders, who received a work placement at a Tŷ Gwynedd site, said:

"I first heard about the course through my work mentor in Gwaith Gwynedd, she told me about the course and how it could help me develop skills that I showed an interest in.

“In my week of work experience with OBR they helped me see what different careers are available within the construction industry, such as joinery and plumbing, and allowed me to gain firsthand experience on how a building site operated as well as how the different trades work with one another.

“This paid work placement will allow me to develop my skills further and see what else is available, while providing me with a wage to support myself as I work towards trying to get a full-time career within the industry.

“Being on the course has opened my eyes to the possibility of returning to education to further cement my prospects of receiving lifelong skills to develop my future."

Councillor Paul Rowlinson, Cyngor Gwynedd’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Property, said:

“I’m very pleased that the Tŷ Gwynedd housing developments by Cyngor Gwynedd in Llanberis and Bangor can play a part in such a positive project. Initiatives like this help bridge the gap between education and employment, and we are grateful to Academi Adra, Gwaith Gwynedd, and OBR Construction for helping create these opportunities.

“Not only will Tŷ Gwynedd’s developments provide much needed affordable housing for local people, but they also create opportunities for young people to gain practical experience and take the first steps towards successful careers in the construction sector. Best wishes to Rhun and Ben in their work placements, and for the future in their careers!”

A spokesperson on behalf of Academi Adra said:

“We are extremely proud of what Ben and Rhun have achieved during their time with us at Academi Adra. Both have made an excellent impression with the team at the OBR sites and fully deserve this opportunity to prove themselves in the industry.

“Academi Adra is very proud to be able to create opportunities like this for local young people, and we look forward to seeing both learning new skills and progressing to the next stage in their careers within the construction sector.”

A spokesperson on behalf of OBR Construction said:

"It is a pleasure for us as a local company to provide opportunities and experiences to young people by showcasing the variety of work that exists within the construction sector. It is a great opportunity for them to experience how projects are carried out and develop practical skills. We appreciate the dedication and enthusiasm of Ben and Rhun in the workplace. I hope the experience will be a stepping stone for them into the world of construction. Thanks to Academi Adra and Cyngor Gwynedd for being part of this important project.”