Town Council reiterates opposition to out-of-town development

If there was any thought that Welshpool Town Council had softened its stance against out-of-town developments, then this week’s Planning Committee proved otherwise.

Back before councillors was another application from developers at Buttington Cross roundabout for a discharge of conditions attached to planning approval at The Moors, and without even discussing the work requested, there was a flat ‘NO’ from the chamber.

“They’ve ignored what we’ve said in the past so we won’t be changing our stance now,” said Cllr Alison Davies, who urged councillors to pass a “no comment” motion.

But councillors wanted to go further and again reiterate that they were against any development at the site “based on previous objections”, according to committee chair, Cllr David France. Councillors backed that motion proposed by Cllr Billy Spencer.

There is a major development being undertaken at the location, with a drive-thru and hotel just two of the projects set to take shape.

But it has been strongly opposed by the Town Council who fear it will take business away from the town centre, while residents in the location are fed up with the traffic, parking and litter problems created by the McDonald’s and the petrol station already in operation.

Throughout the process, the Town Council has accused Powys County Council, the decision makers, of ignoring their views, with the developments expected to go ahead regardless of local feeling.