To replace the prefab houses, the councils introduced the conceptual council estate design: a formal geometry with large greens, crescents and a generally thoughtful layout. Such planning contributed to the instant sense of community that many had initially felt upon moving into their temporary homes. In some estates like the one in Newport things have been very well handled and the residents are being moved in clusters, keeping their neighbours and the sense of community.

Left: Bishpool and Treberth Estates, Newport; Right: Inside a Newport prefab.

But owning a “home sweet home” was the dream of the post-war generation. All working-class people, the prefab residents shared the same age and the same choice of entertainment. On the prefab estates, a strong community spirit could be found, emphasised by the atmosphere of the time - everything was to be rebuilt. The shared experiences have kept communities together. After everything they had suffered in the 40’s, these houses meant so much for the prefabs residents.