The restoration of a row of Grade II listed buildings in Rhymney is being threatened by persistent antisocial behaviour, it has been claimed.
Susannah Houses, in Penydre, have sat derelict for a number of years before Pengam-based company Taliesin Conservation recently began work to transform the buildings into four new homes.
Despite a number of security measures being put in place, there have been several incidents of vandalism and theft at the site which have damaged the buildings.
The cottages are a rare surviving example of early industrial housing, built at the beginning of the 1800s to house skilled colliers from the local Rhymney Iron Company.
Mike Williams, Director at Taliesin Conservation, said: “Susannah Houses are highly significant and an irreplaceable part of Rhymney’s heritage.
“The cottages are not just important to Rhymney but to the greater Welsh community, which is why they have been listed and are protected by law.
“Our intention is to restore the cottages and provide sustainable living accommodation for local people. It’s disheartening when our efforts to do so are continually thwarted by mindless acts of vandalism.”
Cllr Carl Cuss, ward member for Twyn Carno, added: “I urge people to help us protect this important piece of our history and prevent any serious accidents by reporting incidents of people entering the site to Gwent Police by calling 101.”