On the second anniversary of the 'One Wales' agreement, the Welsh Assembly Government has announced it is half way to meeting its target of creating an additional 6,500 affordable homes Jocelyn Davies AM, Deputy Minister for Housing has announced.

Early figures suggest the number of homes, delivered by Housing Associations over the last two years, is 3,252. This is based on independent figures provided the Welsh Economic Research Unit (WERU).

Ms Davies also announced the extension of energy efficiency grants for first time buyers when she visited two new homeowners in Wrexham who have benefitted from the grant.

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The visit was part of 24 special events to mark the half way point of the 'One Wales' programme.

Ms Davies said: "I am delighted to announce that we are on track to meet our target of creating 6,500 additional affordable homes in this Assembly term.

"This is a particularly impressive achievement given the current economic conditions. We have been committed to meet these targets and have put more financial support into housing. It is also a great achievement by Housing Associations who have committed their own resources at a time when borrowing is more expensive and difficult to obtain.

"In December 2008, we announced £42 million extra funding to be spent over three financial years to boost the creation of affordable housing in Wales. This gave a vital stimulus to the construction industry and is helping us to meet our ambitious target."

Pilot schemes to provide energy efficiency grants to first time buyers are to be extended to include all housing renewal areas in Wales for 2009-2010. Ms Davies also announced the breakdown of money to each Local Authority that made a bid for the resources.

(CD/JM)