Developers say they have revised plans for 17 flats

Developers say they have revised plans for a town centre housing scheme after a community consultation.

The scheme for 17 flats on the site of the former Welshpool Social Club goes before Powys Planning Committee on Friday, facing objections from the Town Council and local residents.

But the developers say the housing scheme, that could bring much needed affordable residential accommodation into the centre of Welshpool for the first time in many years, has been revised as part of a pre-planning consultation.

Mid Wales Properties Ltd is planning to build apartments on behalf of Mid Wales Housing Association. They have been designed by Hughes Architects, which has building design and planning offices in Welshpool.The scheme has been called in for discussion by the planning committee by County Councillor Graham Breeze.

The development will provide affordable housing and has been allocated a substantial grant by the Welsh Government as part of its Innovative Housing Programme due to the scheme’s energy efficient design and construction method, with the intention of more than halving its residents’ heating and electricity bills.

Mr. Steve Bowen of Mid-Wales Properties Ltd said: “The whole point of the pre-planning consultation is to take into account the views of local residents and others prior to a full planning application being made. 

“We understand, as with any planning application, there will be some concern. We have taken on board the comments from the consultation and, working with Hughes Architects, we have revised the design.”

Mr. Alex Dawson, Senior Development Officer at Mid-Wales Housing said: “This is an important development, bringing what is a redundant and disused building and plot back into use.

“It is the first such housing scheme in the town centre for many years, ensuring good access to shops, amenities and transport for residents, whilst also providing truly energy efficient accommodation.”

The development is being constructed on behalf of Mid Wales Housing Association for rent to local people.

Both Mid Wales Properties Ltd and Mid-Wales Housing Association have policies of using local suppliers and contractors where possible in all of its developments.

Picture: An artist's impression of how the development would look.