INCA Case Study: Craig Cefn Parc, Swansea

Resident management

Carrying out intrusive external works while tenants and private homeowners remained in occupation demanded careful planning and continuous communication. Each property typically experienced three to five days without its primary heating system during the transition from oil to an air source heat pump. Temporary heating was provided throughout, and the project team maintained a close relationship with occupants to minimise disruption and manage expectations.

Early scepticism among residents, which was understandable given the scale of work was addressed through proactive engagement and communication from the outset. As the first completed properties began to demonstrate the quality and comfort of the finished result, confidence grew across the street, and the programme gathered momentum.

Outcomes

Completed in November 2025, the upgrades have significantly improved the thermal performance of the homes, achieving an external wall u-value calculated at 0.18 W/m²K, and the renewable energy systems have removed their reliance on oil while reducing energy bills and carbon emissions.

Residents have responded positively, praising the warmth and transformation in the appearance of their homes.

For Swansea Council, the project demonstrates that with local authority ambition, government support and specialist expertise, even the most technically challenging homes can be transformed, delivering significant improvements for residents and a more sustainable housing portfolio.

Mark Robinson, Project Surveyor at Swansea Council, says:

“Our work at Craig Cefn Parc was challenging but at the same time extremely rewarding. Working with non-traditional house types is something I will always lean towards, they each have their own specific intricacies that need to be considered and I find enjoyment in this challenge.”

Stuart Lloyd, Site Manager for Swansea Council, adds:

“This was never going to be a standard upgrade. From the type of construction to the remote location and community engagement, we had to navigate many different factors on a weekly basis. Working closely with Sika, we effectively rebuilt the external envelope around these homes, overcoming constraints to deliver a technically robust solution that has genuinely changed how residents live in their homes.”

The installation process required careful planning and attention to detail due to the exposed nature of the site. Working in a coastal environment often presents logistical challenges, with weather conditions needing to be closely monitored throughout the programme. However, through close collaboration between Baumit and the applicator, the project was delivered successfully, ensuring that every component of the system was installed in accordance with best practice.

Keith Towsey, Baumit Approved applicator, commented: “Being based in a Zone 4 exposure area, we need complete confidence in the systems we install. The combination of Baumit StarSystem EPS, StarContact White and StarColor provides a robust solution that performs exceptionally well in harsh coastal conditions, delivering both long-term protection and a high-quality finish.”

The completed project demonstrates how the careful specification and application of a fully integrated Baumit façade system can successfully overcome even the most demanding environmental challenges. What was once a neglected and inefficient property has been transformed into a comfortable, energy-efficient and resilient modern home, fully equipped to withstand the rigours of its Atlantic-facing location. At the same time, the refurbishment has preserved the building’s original character, ensuring that it continues to make a positive contribution to the local coastal landscape for many years to come.