THE only remaining Gwent local authority with council houses is to consult its tenants on transferring to a social landlord because it can't afford mammoth repair costs.

Caerphilly council estimates it would need to find £116.4 million over the next 30 years for its 10,980 properties to meet the Welsh housing quality standard (WHQS).

While it couldn't afford such a cost, a social landlord wouldn't have the same financial restrictions and could access more funds. A proposed new housing organisation called Castell Mynydd would be able to pump £173 million into the properties in its first five years alone, bringing them up to the standard required by the Welsh Government.

Despite much opposition, councillors voted in favour of a ballot on transferring after a lengthy debate last February.

However, this will be the first time residents will have a chance to give their views on the proposals.

Former leader Lindsay Whittle said last February he spent many sleepless nights agonising over the options, adding: "In an ideal world, we would want to retain control of our housing stock, but we must be realistic."

Caerphilly council plans to ballot its tenants on the proposed transfer this Autumn, with an in-depth consultation process planned for the next few months.

Show houses have been created at Ty Isaf Park Avenue, Risca and Meadow Road, Pontllanfraith, demonstrating to residents the types of kitchens, bathrooms, double-glazed windows and heating systems that would be available through a social landlord.

The WHQS is a Welsh Government requirement for all properties to have achieved by 2012, with landlords expected to maintain them at that level for the following 30 years.

All houses must be in a good state of repair, safe and secure, adequately heated, fuel efficient, well-insulated with an up-to-date kitchen and bathroom. They must also be well-managed, in an attractive and safe environment.

Since 2003, Caerphilly council's housing business plan has shown it won't have enough money to meet the required standard.

Cllr Lyn Ackerman said the showrooms are a key part of the consultation process, adding: "We want all tenants to understand the facts about transfer so they can make an informed choice about the future of their homes.”

In the event of a no vote, the council will look at raising the money through options including borrowing and higher rent charges.

Gwent's other four local authorities have already transferred their housing stocks over to social landlords, while Caerphilly council owns 10,980 houses and 1,200 garages.

Show houses will be open at 65 Ty Isaf Park Avenue, Risca, until June 18 and 40 Meadow Road, Springfield, Pontllanfraith until June 18 and then from June 20 to 25.

To find out more about the proposals or help visiting the showrooms, call freephone 08001412834.