Villagers to fight housing plans

By Elgan Hearn, Local Democracy Reporter

An action group has been formed by villagers who oppose plans to build a housing estate there.

Last month it emerged that Welshpool based Richard Glover-Davies of Montgomeryshire Homes had lodged plans with Powys County Council to build 25 dwellings, which includes three affordable homes as well as vehicle access and associated works, at land next to Maes Dinas, Llanfechain.

The development is for eight detached and eight semi-detached properties. Nine dwellings would also be built in a terrace.

The houses would have two, three and four bedrooms while bungalows would have two bedrooms.

The consultation period on the scheme will take place over the Christmas and the New Year holiday period.

A spokesperson for Llanfechain Preservation Group said: “We have formed an Action Group – Llanfechain Preservation Group – and the support from the community and other interest groups is growing rapidly.

“There are a number of issues relating to the site which make it a poor choice for development.

“The location is on the edge of the flood zone, has the potential to increase the likelihood and frequency of flooding around the Cain bridge affecting a number of properties.

“Additionally, the significant increase in traffic levels within the village on trying to negotiate the junction with the B4393 is going to present unnecessary noise, congestion and road safety issues.”

They added that there had also been “two significant sewage leaks” at the site during the last four months and there are also two public footpaths there.

The village is in the ward of Powys county councillor Gwynfor Thomas (Conservative – Llansantffraid.) who wants to see the application dealt with by councillors on the Planning Committee.

Cllr Thomas said: “I would like to exercise my right to call in the application due to the significant public interest in it.

“The (Llanfechain) community council have also asked me to call in the application due to the significant communications that they have received surrounding the application.

“I further believe that the (Planning) committee would benefit from a site visit.”

Planning Agent, Gerallt Davies of Roger Parry and Partners, said: “The different types of houses are pepper potted across the site, to ensure it provides a diverse range of properties throughout the site.

“The proposed scheme will inevitably boost the local economy, providing additional housing in the village for local people.”

A decision on the application is expected by January 22.