VILLAGERS are locked in a bitter dispute with their housing association landlords.

The residents in Maes Hyfryd, Rhosrobin say their concerns over the standards of accommodation being provided are not being listened to.

Wales and West Housing Association bosses, however, insist they take their responsibilities to maintain properties seriously.

They say surveys have been completed, they are confident that their properties are up to scratch and that they are on track with any necessary work.

Chris Higgin, acting chairman of the Maes Hyfryd Residents Association, said: “We need new windows and we are suffering. We have always been last to get anything.

“We have asked for someone to visit the close to find out what the residents would like, but no-one has bothered. We feel as if we don’t matter.”

He added: “These houses are now almost 20 years old. They have never had new windows or kitchens.

“Wales and West are doing the bathrooms but residents have asked for windows because the current ones are rotting and heat is being lost.

“Wales and West is providing insulation in the walls and lofts, but that is defeating the object when they won’t put new windows in.”

In response, a spokesman for Wales and West said: “Working with our residents to provide them with energy efficient, safe, affordable homes is a key priority for us.

“We are investing over £8 million each year to improve homes and meet the Welsh Housing Quality Standard as required by 2012.

“We take our responsibilities to maintain our properties seriously and surveys have been completed at Maes Hyfryd, so we are confident of the condition of our properties there and the works required.

“In February 2010, we wrote to every resident detailing the works planned over the next three years which included replacement kitchens and bathrooms.

“At Maes Hyfryd just three of the 50 residents contacted us saying that their windows were draughty.

“We have draught-proofed the windows and have also installed loft and cavity wall insulation to help keep their homes warm and make them more energy efficient.”

The spokesman added: “No residents wrote to us to say that their bathrooms or their kitchens did not need replacing and anyway these works are necessary for the association to comply with the Welsh Assembly Government’s requirements.

“Accordingly, new bathrooms have been installed and the kitchens are scheduled for replacement in 2012.”

The spokeswoman said the properties at Maes Hyfryd were built in 1994.

The windows are timber and double glazed. Following surveys, these windows are scheduled for replacement in 2013.

“We routinely inspect and survey our homes and would be happy to meet residents to discuss the improvements required,” the spokesman added.