New Invertek HQ approved

Powys councillors have unanimously supported plans for a new headquarters building for a major employer in the Welshpool area.

At a meeting of Powys County Council’s Planning committee today (Wednesday), plans by Invertek Drives Limited for a new four-storey building at Unit C, Offa’s Dyke Business Park, Buttington came before councillors.

The building would become the company’s headquarters, include a research and development centre and also include an electricity substation, new access and associated works and 40 parking spaces.

Principal Planning Officer, Richard Edwards, recommended approving the scheme but the application had been “called in” for a decision by local county councillor Amanda Jenner due to local concerns on the height of the building.

Cllr Jenner (Conservative – Trewern and Trelystan) could not be at the meeting but her comments were read out to the committee by planning solicitor, Rachel Mole.

Cllr Jenner said: “As the local member I am aware that the community council has concerns about the height of the development. While the height evaluation plan has been provided it is hard to visualise.

“Given that the building will be significantly taller than Charlies and Zip Clip there is concern how this will look in a rural area.

“Is there a need for the building to be so high and ask this be explored with the applicant.”

Samir Guerguab of Invertek drives, explained that the building was tall due to the constraints of the site which “reduced the available footprint” for the building.

“The additional height should be understood in context, it’s not height for its own sake but a practical response to a restricted site and specific operational needs,” said Mr Guerguab.

Cllr Karl Lewis (Reform UK - Llandinam with Dolfor), said: “Whilst I support this application, I want to ask if there’s been any correspondence from neighbouring companies such as Charlies and Zip Clip, about the scale of the building regarding the height and overbearingness maybe on their business at all?”

Mr Edwards said: “There have been no public comments at all raised on this application.”

Cllr Lewis then said he would be “more than happy” to support the officer’s recommendation to approve the proposal.

Cllr Lewis said: “This business employs a lot of people in the locality.”

Cllr David Selby (Liberal Democrat – Newtown Central and South) said: “Just to add my support.

“It’s good to see a modern design, in my view it suits the site brilliantly and provides a suitable entry into Welshpool as a unique building.”

The committee moved to a vote and all eight councillors backed the scheme.