THE EAGERLY awaited redevelopment of Hen Bentre Pwylaidd (previously known as Penrhos Polish Village), in the heart of Gwynedd, has reached an important milestone in its progress, as viewings are now underway at the show home of this independent living scheme. The development of phase One will soon be home to 42 people over the age of 55; with completion scheduled for Winter 2026.
Gwynedd Council, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and ClwydAlyn, are continuing to work together on an innovative new care model for the site at Pen Llyn, with a focus on the provision of high quality, energy efficient homes and modern health and care services. The phased redevelopment will replace all existing accommodation on the site over a three to five-year period.
The first phase of the development of Hen Bentre Pwylaidd will provide independent living homes on Llŷn Peninsula near Pwllheli for people aged 55 and over with an assessed care and support need (Extra Care). Current and prospective residents are now being given the opportunity to look inside the development’s show home.
The new development, which will welcome its first residents in Winter 2026, has been carefully designed to meet the growing need for high-quality affordable homes for older people in Gwynedd.
As the older population across Gwynedd increases, so does the importance of planning for an independent future; allowing older residents to make the most of living longer and healthier lives.
Hen Bentre Pwylaidd will offer a mix of modern apartments and bungalows, enabling residents to maintain their independence whilst benefitting from the reassurance of on-site support and care if needed; providing peace of mind for individuals and their families.
As demonstrated in the show apartment, the homes will feature innovative design elements that promote accessibility, independence, and wellbeing. While energy-efficient technologies will ensure that the homes are warm, well-insulated and affordable to run.
Dylan Davies, Senior Development Project Manager at ClwydAlyn said: “The opening of the show apartment gives residents the opportunity to see the quality of the homes that will be available and how the scheme has been carefully designed around the needs of older people.
“Schemes like this play a vital role in rural communities, by combining accessible homes with support services and opportunities for social connection.
“We’re delighted to be working on this groundbreaking scheme alongside our partners Cyngor Gwynedd, Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board, the Welsh Government and Williams Homes (Bala) Ltd, to ensure that people can continue to live within their community for longer.”
Independent living schemes like this one (sometimes called ‘Extra Care’ schemes) are increasingly being recognised for the positive impact they have on the physical and mental wellbeing of residents.
Other features and benefits include:
- Residents maintain independence
- Living in a community increases social interaction
- Reduced isolation and loneliness
- Residents have access to care and / or support if needed
- High quality build
- Homes are well-insulated for warmth
- Energy efficiency enables more affordable fuel bills
- Scheme manager and on-site staff
- Daily meals available in the on-site restaurant
- Domiciliary care can be provided based on assessed need, via Cyngor Gwynedd
- Personal alarm system for peace of mind
- Communal facilities for hobbies and entertainment
Providing existing and new residents with the opportunity to move into brand new, modern homes, Hen Bentre Pwylaidd is owned and operated by social landlord ClwydAlyn. Following the current redevelopment, the scheme will continue to operate as ‘Extra Care Housing.’
In-line with the Age Friendly Gwynedd Action Plan, these purpose-built homes are safe and comfortable throughout.
Cyngor Gwynedd and Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board have confirmed plans are moving ahead to build a nursing care home, on the same site.
Cyngor Gwynedd is currently progressing plans which would see a formal planning application for the care home submitted, with construction anticipated to begin in 2027, subject to the necessary approvals.
The proposed residential and nursing care home would provide 56 beds, designed to modern regulatory standards, with full en-suite provision and dementia-friendly features.
Cyngor Gwynedd anticipates that its new care home will be ready in 2029.
For more information about the ongoing development visit: Hen Bentre Pwylaidd, Gwynedd – Clwydalyn.
Click here to watch the Hen Bentre Pwylaidd YouTube video.
