Environment Minister, John Griffiths has announced household energy efficiency grants totalling £4.4m for Welsh local authorities.

Ten councils across Wales will receive funding to make over 670 homes warmer and better to live in.

Work has already started on some schemes and all improvements are expected to have been made by the end of June. Each project varies but examples of work include installing external wall insulation and energy efficient boilers.

The Minister said: "A continuing upward trend in fuel prices means we must do all we can to ensure that Welsh homes are fit for the future.

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"The UK Government's welfare reforms will have a huge and damaging effect on Wales, hitting the most vulnerable in our communities through to low-middle income families.

"We are committed to taking action that makes a real, sustainable difference to people across Wales. I am pleased that ten councils applied for funding and are now able to work with local communities to ensure homes are more comfortable and more affordable to heat. Our successful Arbed scheme is an example of sustainability in action – it brings social benefits, it supports the economy and it protects our environment.

"All projects receiving funding will use Welsh-based installers or those that have offices here."

Eleven projects will receive grants of between £16,000 and £450,000: Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Ceredigion, Cardiff, Flintshire, Newport, Monmouthshire, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen and the Vale of Glamorgan are the local authorities receiving money.

(CD/GK)